Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned an alleged incident involving Justice Mohammed Umar, describing reports that he ordered a lawyer to kneel in court as a violation of judicial standards and professional dignity.
The incident reportedly occurred at the Federal High Court in Abuja during proceedings in a case involving activist Omoyele Sowore, who is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services over alleged cyber-related offences.
According to reports, the presiding judge cautioned the defence counsel, Marshall Abubakar, over his tone while addressing the court. The situation escalated when the judge allegedly directed the lawyer to step forward and kneel down.Other lawyers present were said to have intervened, pleading for leniency, after which the judge adjourned the case.
Reacting in a statement, NBA President Afam Osigwe expressed concern over the development, stressing that such a directive is inconsistent with established legal procedures and courtroom decorum.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the statement read, adding that while judges have the authority to maintain order, such powers are not absolute.
The association emphasised that ordering any individual, including a legal practitioner, to kneel down l is not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian law and does not align with expected standards of conduct on the bench. It noted that issues of contempt must follow clearly defined legal procedures to ensure fairness and respect for rights.
The NBA also urged lawyers to maintain professionalism, noting that while they are expected to advocate firmly for their clients, such advocacy must remain within the bounds of courtesy and respect for the court.
Reacting to the incident, Sowore criticised the development, questioning the state of justice in the country. Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong also condemned the reported directive, describing it as unacceptable and insisting that corporal punishment has no place in the courtroom.
The NBA reiterated the need for mutual respect between the bench and the bar, urging that grievances arising from courtroom conduct be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels. It also affirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s legal system.
