The Nigerian Bar Association has strongly condemned reports that a lawyer was ordered to kneel in open court, declaring that no judge has such power under Nigerian law.
Reacting to the incident which reportedly occurred on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, described the development as a serious concern for the legal profession.
According to him, the reported directive by Justice Mohammed Umar ordering defence counsel, Marshall Abubakar, who appeared for Omoyele Sowore, to kneel in court raises fundamental issues about judicial conduct and the dignity of the courtroom.
“The Nigerian Bar Association views this development with utmost seriousness, given its implications for the dignity of the legal profession and the sanctity of the courtroom,” Osigwe said.
He stressed that while judges have the authority to maintain order and discipline, such powers must be exercised strictly within the bounds of the law and established judicial procedures.
“A judge 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,” he stated.
Osigwe explained that although courts possess powers to punish for contempt, such powers are guided by clearly defined legal procedures to ensure fairness and respect for the rights of all parties.
“If a judge is of the view that a person has acted in a manner that is contemptuous of the court, the judge must follow the accepted procedure for such allegations,” he added.
The NBA President also cautioned lawyers to uphold professionalism and decorum at all times, even in moments of disagreement with the court.
“While lawyers are entitled to advocate firmly and fearlessly on behalf of their clients, such advocacy must always be exercised within the bounds of courtesy and decorum,” he said.
He noted that the legal profession depends on mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench, describing the relationship as essential to the administration of justice.
Calling for calm, Osigwe urged that any grievances arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels.
“Where necessary, the Association will engage with relevant authorities to ensure that the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics are upheld,” he said.
