NBA blasts Justice Umar for ordering Sowore’s lawyer to kneel in court

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the recent directive by a Federal High Court judge ordering a lawyer to kneel in court during proceedings involving activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the NBA said the incident, which occurred on Monday, 16 March 2026, at the Federal High Court, Abuja, involving Justice Mohammed Umar and lead defence counsel Marshall Abubakar, raised serious concerns about the dignity of the legal profession and the sanctity of the courtroom.

The NBA noted that the judge allegedly directed Abubakar to step out of the Bar and kneel down after raising his voice while addressing the court on the scheduling of hearing dates, also issuing threats of committal for contempt.

According to the association, “A judex directing a legal practitioner or indeed any person whatsoever to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under our laws and does not align with the standards of judicial conduct expected on the Bench.”

The body emphasized that while judges have the authority to maintain order and discipline in court, such powers must be exercised strictly within the law and established judicial standards.

Any allegations of contempt must follow defined legal procedures to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all parties in court.

The NBA reminded lawyers of their duty to conduct themselves with professionalism and restraint, advocating firmly for clients while maintaining courtesy and decorum. It also stressed the importance of preserving the delicate balance between the Bar and the Bench, which is fundamental to the administration of justice.

The association called for calm and restraint on all sides and urged that grievances arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary mechanisms. The NBA further pledged to engage with relevant authorities where necessary to uphold the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics.