The Nigerian Bar Association has expressed serious concern over reports of a controversial courtroom incident at the Federal High Court in Abuja, declaring that no judge has the legal authority to order a lawyer—or any individual—to kneel as a form of punishment.
The association’s reaction follows allegations involving Justice Mohammed Umar and a legal practitioner, Marshall Abubakar, who appeared as lead defence counsel to activist and politician Omoyele Sowore.
According to reports, the incident occurred on Monday, March 16, 2026, during court proceedings when the lawyer allegedly raised his voice while addressing the court on the issue of a suitable hearing date. In response, the presiding judge was said to have directed the counsel to step out of the Bar and kneel, while also threatening committal for contempt of court.
In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, the NBA described the development as troubling, noting that it raises significant concerns about the dignity of the legal profession and the proper exercise of judicial authority.
The association stressed that the courtroom is a sacred space in the justice system—one governed by established laws, procedures, and ethical standards that must be respected by all participants, including judges and lawyers.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the statement said.
While acknowledging that judges are empowered to maintain order and discipline within their courts, the NBA emphasised that such authority is not absolute and must be exercised strictly within the confines of the law.
According to the association, the power to punish for contempt of court is well recognised in legal systems, including Nigeria’s, but it is subject to clearly defined procedures designed to ensure fairness and protect the dignity of all parties involved.
The NBA made it clear that directing a lawyer or any individual to kneel in court is not a recognised sanction under Nigerian law and falls short of acceptable standards of judicial conduct.
“A judge directing a legal practitioner or indeed any person whatsoever to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under our laws,” the statement noted.
The association added that such actions are inconsistent with the ethical expectations placed on members of the judiciary and risk undermining public confidence in the justice system.
It stressed that the dignity of the court must be preserved not only in the decisions it delivers but also in the manner in which proceedings are conducted.
“The dignity of the court must be preserved not only in outcome but also in process,” the NBA said, adding that judicial authority must always be exercised in a way that reflects fairness, restraint, and respect for fundamental rights.
The NBA further explained that where a judge believes that a lawyer or any individual has acted in a manner that amounts to contempt of court, the appropriate legal procedures must be followed.
These procedures, the association noted, are designed to ensure objectivity and prevent arbitrary or excessive use of judicial power.
“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 handling such allegations,” the statement emphasised.
The association warned that deviation from these procedures could erode the rule of law and weaken the integrity of the judicial system.
While strongly criticising the alleged conduct of the judge, the NBA also reminded legal practitioners of their duty to maintain professionalism and decorum in court.
It noted that lawyers are expected to conduct themselves with restraint, courtesy, and respect at all times, even when engaged in vigorous advocacy on behalf of their clients.
“Legal practitioners bear a corresponding duty to conduct themselves with restraint, professionalism, and respect for the court at all times,” the association said.
The NBA acknowledged that lawyers have a responsibility to represent their clients fearlessly and effectively. However, it stressed that such advocacy must always be exercised within the bounds of acceptable courtroom behaviour.
Disagreements with the court, the association added, should be expressed through appropriate legal channels rather than through conduct that could disrupt proceedings or appear disrespectful.
The statement highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy and respectful relationship between the Bar and the Bench, describing it as fundamental to the administration of justice.
According to the NBA, the legal profession depends on a delicate balance built on mutual respect between judges and lawyers, and any actions that threaten this balance must be addressed carefully.
“The legal profession thrives on a delicate but essential balance, one rooted in mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench,” the statement noted.
It warned that incidents such as the one reported could strain this relationship if not handled appropriately and in accordance with established norms.
In its concluding remarks, the NBA called for calm and restraint from all parties involved in the incident.
The association urged that any grievances arising from courtroom conduct should be addressed through established institutional and disciplinary mechanisms rather than through public confrontation or escalation.
“The NBA calls for calm and restraint on all sides,” the statement said, adding that the association remains committed to upholding the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics.
It also indicated its readiness to engage with relevant authorities where necessary to ensure that proper procedures are followed and that justice is served.
Reaffirming its role as the guardian of professional standards in Nigeria’s legal community, the NBA pledged to continue monitoring developments related to the incident.
The association reiterated its commitment to ensuring that both judicial officers and legal practitioners adhere to the highest standards of conduct in the administration of justice.
“Where necessary, the Association will engage with relevant authorities to ensure that the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics are upheld,” the statement concluded.
The incident has since sparked debate within legal circles and among the general public, with many calling for a thorough review of courtroom conduct and adherence to due process in handling issues of discipline and contempt.
As discussions continue, stakeholders agree that preserving the dignity of the judiciary and the legal profession remains essential to maintaining public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.
