By Frank Ulom
ABUJA (CONVERSEER) – The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has criticised an alleged directive by a Federal High Court judge ordering a legal practitioner to kneel during court proceedings in Abuja, stating that such an action has no basis in law.
The reaction follows reports of an incident on March 16, 2026, involving Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court and defence counsel, Marshall Abubakar, who was representing Omoyele Sowore.
According to the NBA, the judge allegedly directed the lawyer to step out of the Bar and kneel after he raised his voice while addressing the court over the suitability of a hearing date. The judge was also reported to have issued threats of committal for contempt.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), described the development as serious, noting that it raises concerns about the dignity of the legal profession and adherence to judicial standards.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” Osigwe stated. “While judges are vested with the authority to maintain order, such authority must be exercised strictly within the bounds of the law and established judicial standards.”
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He emphasised that although courts possess the power to punish for contempt, such powers are regulated by clearly defined procedures to ensure fairness and respect for the rights of all parties.
The NBA maintained that directing a lawyer or any individual to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian law and does not align with expected standards of conduct on the Bench.
“A judge who believes a person has acted in contempt must follow due process in addressing such conduct,” the statement added.
The association also cautioned legal practitioners to uphold professionalism, stressing that while lawyers are obligated to represent clients firmly, such advocacy must remain within the limits of decorum and respect for the court.
It noted that the relationship between the Bar and the Bench is fundamental to the administration of justice and must be preserved through mutual respect.
The NBA called for calm and restraint, urging that disputes arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels.
It further indicated its readiness to engage relevant authorities where necessary to ensure that the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics are upheld.
