The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned an alleged courtroom incident involving Justice Mohammed Umar, describing reports that a lawyer was ordered to kneel as inconsistent with judicial standards and the dignity of the legal profession.
According to a report by Channels Television, the incident occurred during proceedings in a case involving activist Omoyele Sowore, who is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services over alleged cyber-related offences.
The report stated that the presiding judge cautioned defence counsel over his tone during submissions and at one point allegedly directed him to “come out and kneel down” in open court. Other lawyers reportedly intervened, pleading for leniency, after which the judge adjourned the matter.
In a statement issued on Monday, NBA President Afam Osigwe expressed concern over the development, noting that the directive was reportedly given to Marshall Abubakar, lead defence counsel to Sowore, during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The association said the incident followed an exchange in which the lawyer raised his voice while addressing the court over the suitability of a hearing date, prompting threats of contempt proceedings.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the NBA stated, stressing that judicial authority must always be exercised within established legal limits.
While acknowledging that judges have powers to maintain discipline, the association emphasised that such authority is not absolute.
“A judge directing a legal practitioner or any person to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under our laws and does not align with expected standards of judicial conduct,” the statement added.
The NBA further noted that although contempt powers are well established, they are governed by defined procedures to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for rights.
“If a judge believes a person has acted in contempt, the proper legal process must be followed,” the association said.
The body also reminded lawyers of their professional obligations, urging them to maintain restraint and decorum in court while advocating for clients.
Reacting to the incident, Sowore criticised the directive in a post on X, questioning the state of justice in Nigeria and praising his lawyer for standing firm.
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong also described the reported order as unacceptable.
“Corporal punishment has no place in the temple of justice. It is better to be imprisoned as a lawyer than to be compelled to kneel in court,” he said.
The NBA stressed that the relationship between the Bar and the Bench is fundamental to the administration of justice and must be guided by mutual respect.
It called for calm and urged that any grievances arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels, reaffirming its commitment to upholding the rule of law and judicial ethics.
