The Nigerian Bar Association has raised concerns over reports that a judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja allegedly ordered a defence lawyer to kneel during proceedings, stressing that such a directive has no basis in Nigerian law.
In a statement issued Tuesday, NBA President Afam Osigwe said the association was disturbed by claims that Justice Mohammed Umar instructed lawyer Marshall Abubakar to kneel in court.
The incident was said to have occurred on Monday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Abubakar appeared as lead counsel for Omoyele Sowore. According to the NBA, the judge allegedly gave the directive after the lawyer raised his voice while addressing the court over a hearing date, and also threatened contempt proceedings.
Describing the development as one it views with “utmost seriousness,” the association said the matter touches on the dignity of the legal profession and the sanctity of the courtroom.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure and decorum. While judges are vested with the authority to maintain order and discipline in their courts, such authority must be exercised strictly within the bounds of the law and established judicial standards,” the statement read.
The NBA acknowledged that judges have the power to punish for contempt but emphasised that such powers must follow established legal procedures that ensure fairness and respect for the rights and dignity of individuals.
It added that ordering any person, including a lawyer, to kneel in court is not a recognised sanction under Nigerian law and falls short of expected judicial conduct. The association stressed that the dignity of the court must be upheld not only in its rulings but also in how judicial authority is exercised.
“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 legal procedure for addressing such allegations,” the NBA said.
The body also reminded legal practitioners of their obligation to maintain professionalism, restraint and respect for the court, noting that while advocacy should be firm and fearless, it must remain courteous and within courtroom decorum.
Reaffirming the importance of mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench, the NBA called for calm and urged that any grievances be handled through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels. It added that it would engage relevant authorities where necessary to uphold the rule of law, professional standards and judicial ethics.
