NBA CONDEMNS JUDGE FOR ORDERING SOWORE’S LAWYER TO KNEEL IN COURT
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned a reported courtroom incident involving Justice Mohammed Umar, describing the alleged order for a lawyer to kneel as contrary to judicial standards and the dignity of the legal profession.
According to a report by Channels Television, the incident took place during proceedings in a case involving Omoyele Sowore, who is facing prosecution by the Department of State Services over alleged cyber-related offences.
The report stated that the presiding judge cautioned the defence counsel over his tone during submissions and at one point instructed him to “come out and kneel down” in open court. Other lawyers reportedly intervened, urging leniency, after which the judge adjourned the matter and concluded the session for the day.
In a statement issued Monday, the NBA President, Afam Osigwe, expressed concern over reports that Marshall Abubakar, acting as lead defence counsel for Sowore, was ordered to kneel during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The Nigerian Bar Association said the reported directive came after an exchange in court where the lawyer reportedly raised his voice while questioning the suitability of a hearing date, prompting threats of committal for contempt.
The association noted that the incident raises serious concerns about courtroom conduct and respect for due process.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the NBA statement said, emphasizing that judicial authority must always be exercised within established legal limits.
While recognizing that judges have the authority to maintain order and discipline in court, the Nigerian Bar Association stressed that such powers are not unlimited.
“A judge directing a legal practitioner, or any person, to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under our laws and does not conform to the standards of judicial conduct expected on the Bench,” the association said.
The NBA noted that while the power to punish for contempt is well-established, it is governed by clearly defined procedures designed to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all parties.
“If a judge believes that a person has acted in contempt of court, the judge MUST follow the accepted legal procedures for such allegations,” the statement added.
The association also reminded lawyers of their professional responsibilities, urging them to maintain restraint and decorum in court at all times.
“Lawyers are entitled—and indeed obligated—to advocate firmly and fearlessly for their clients, but such advocacy must always be conducted within the bounds of courtesy and decorum. Any disagreement with the court, no matter how strongly felt, must be addressed through proper legal channels,” the NBA said.
The association emphasized that the relationship between the Bar and the Bench is essential to the administration of justice and must be guided by mutual respect. It called for calm and urged that any grievances arising from courtroom incidents be resolved through appropriate institutional and disciplinary mechanisms.
Reacting to the incident, Omoyele Sowore criticised the development in a post on X, questioning the state of justice in the country.
“HOW DO YOU EXPECT JUSTICE IN A COUNTRY WHERE A JUDGE ORDERS A SOLID LAWYER TO KNEEL DOWN…?” he wrote, noting that the lawyer maintained his composure during the exchange.
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong also condemned the reported directive, describing it as unacceptable. “Corporal punishment has no place in the temple of justice. It is better to be imprisoned as a lawyer than to be forced to kneel in the courtroom,” he said.
The Nigerian Bar Association reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics, adding that it would engage relevant authorities where necessary to safeguard the integrity of the legal system.
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