Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticised reports of an incident at the Federal High Court, Abuja, in which a judge allegedly ordered a lawyer to kneel during proceedings, insisting that no such power exists under Nigerian law.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, NBA President, Afam Osigwe, said the association was deeply concerned about the reported incident involving Justice Mohammed Umar and defence counsel, Marshall Abubakar, who appeared for activist Omoyele Sowore.
According to the NBA, the trial judge was said to have directed the lawyer to step out of the Bar and kneel down after he allegedly raised his voice while addressing the court on the suitability of a hearing date, alongside threats of committal for contempt.
Osigwe described the development as serious, noting that it raises fundamental concerns about 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,” he said, stressing that while judges have the authority to maintain order, such powers must be exercised strictly within the confines of the law and established judicial standards.
He emphasised that although courts possess the power to punish for contempt, such authority is guided by clearly defined procedures designed to ensure fairness and protect the rights and dignity of all parties.
The NBA maintained that ordering any person, including a legal practitioner, to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction and does not align with acceptable standards of judicial conduct.
“The dignity of the court must be preserved not only in outcome but also in process,” the statement added, insisting that any allegation of contempt must be handled through established legal procedures.
The association, however, urged lawyers to uphold professionalism, noting that while they are obligated to advocate fearlessly for their clients, they must do so with restraint, courtesy, and respect for the court.
It further stressed the importance of maintaining mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench, describing the relationship as essential to the effective administration of justice.
The NBA called for calm and restraint, urging that grievances arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels.
It also assured that it would engage relevant authorities where necessary to ensure that the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics are upheld.
