TDThe Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a strong condemnation of the conduct of Honourable Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
Justice Umar had reportedly ordered defence counsel Marshall Abubakar to kneel in court during activist Omoyele Sowore’s ongoing cyberstalking trial.
The incident unfolded on Monday, March 16, when Abubakar, appearing as lead counsel for Sowore, objected to the suitability of a hearing date.
In response, Justice Umar allegedly directed the lawyer to step out of the Bar and kneel, while also threatening committal for contempt.
Lawyers present in court intervened, and the judge ultimately backed down without issuing contempt charges.
The matter was adjourned to April 13.
NBA President Frowns
NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, described the directive as “not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian law”.
Osigwe warned that it undermines both the dignity of the legal profession and the sanctity of the courtroom.
“No judge has the power to order a lawyer to kneel in court.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum.
“Authority must be exercised strictly within the bounds of law and judicial standards,” the NBA stated.
The Association stressed that judges are empowered to maintain order and discipline in their courts.
However, contempt proceedings must follow established procedures designed to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for all parties.
It further reminded lawyers of their duty to conduct themselves with restraint and professionalism, even while advocating fearlessly for their clients.
This latest courtroom clash comes against the backdrop of Sowore’s year-long prosecution.
The Genesis
The prosecution stems from social media posts in which the activist accused President Bola Tinubu of being a criminal.
The case has become a flashpoint for debates on free speech, judicial conduct, and political dissent in Nigeria.
Legal analysts note that the incident raises broader questions about the balance of power between the Bench and the Bar.
The NBA’s intervention admits that judges wield significant authority to preserve order.
Nonetheless, it underscored that such authority must never be exercised in ways that humiliate practitioners or erode public confidence in the justice system.
The NBA called for calm and restraint on all sides.
It urged that grievances arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary mechanisms.
The Association pledged to engage with relevant authorities to ensure that the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics are upheld.
