The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticised a reported incident in which a judge allegedly ordered a lawyer representing activist Omoyele Sowore to kneel during court proceedings in Abuja.
The incident reportedly occurred on March 16, 2026, at the Federal High Court in Abuja during a hearing involving Sowore. According to reports, the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, directed Sowore’s lead counsel, Marshall Abubakar, to step out of the bar and kneel after the lawyer raised his voice while addressing the court over a disagreement concerning hearing dates.
The NBA reacted to the development in a statement, describing the alleged directive as inappropriate and inconsistent with established judicial standards. The association said such actions raise serious concerns about respect for the legal profession and the dignity of courtroom proceedings.
According to the NBA, directing a legal practitioner or any individual to kneel in court is not recognised under Nigerian law as a form of judicial sanction. The association emphasised that while judges have the authority to maintain order and discipline in courtrooms, such powers must be exercised strictly within the limits of the law and established procedures.
The NBA further noted that judges possess the power to punish acts of contempt in court. However, the body explained that such powers are governed by clear legal procedures designed to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for the rights of individuals appearing before the court.
In its statement, the association stressed that the courtroom should remain a place governed by law, procedure, and decorum. It added that the dignity of the court must be preserved not only in its judgments but also in how judicial authority is exercised during proceedings.
The NBA also reminded legal practitioners of their professional responsibilities, urging lawyers to maintain courtesy and restraint while presenting arguments in court. According to the association, lawyers are expected to defend their clients firmly and fearlessly, but disagreements with the court should always be expressed through appropriate legal channels.
The organisation called for calm following the incident and encouraged that any concerns arising from courtroom conduct should be handled through established institutional and disciplinary processes. The NBA also pledged to engage relevant authorities if necessary in order to uphold the rule of law and maintain professional standards within the legal system.
Reacting to the incident, Sowore criticised the development on social media, questioning the fairness of a justice system where a lawyer could allegedly be ordered to kneel during court proceedings. He praised his lawyer for maintaining his position during the exchange with the judge.
Observers say the controversy has sparked fresh debate about courtroom conduct, judicial authority, and respect between the Bench and the Bar in Nigeria’s legal system.
The NBA concluded by reiterating that the relationship between judges and lawyers is fundamental to the administration of justice and must always be guided by mutual respect, professionalism, and adherence to the rule of law.
