The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has criticized a courtroom incident in which a judge allegedly ordered a lawyer to kneel during proceedings at the Federal High Court Abuja, saying such a directive is not recognized under Nigerian law.
The incident occurred Monday during the trial of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore, who is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged defamatory posts about President Bola Tinubu.
According to reports, trial judge Mohammed Umar threatened to hold Sowore’s lead counsel, Marshall Abubakar, in contempt after the lawyer raised his voice while arguing over a hearing date.
The judge reportedly ordered the lawyer to step out of the bar and kneel in open court, prompting other lawyers present to intervene and plead for leniency.
In a statement Tuesday, NBA President Afam Osigwe said judges have the authority to maintain order in court but must exercise that power within the limits of the law.
“A judge directing a legal practitioner to kneel in court is not a recognized judicial sanction under our laws and does not align with the standards of judicial conduct expected on the bench,” Osigwe said.
He added that while lawyers must maintain professionalism and respect for the court, disciplinary measures must follow established legal procedures.
The NBA urged calm and called for any grievances arising from the incident to be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels to safeguard the rule of law and the integrity of the justice system.
