The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has vehemently condemned a reported incident in the courtroom involving Justice Mohammed Umar, labelling the alleged instruction for a lawyer to kneel as a violation of judicial standards and professional respect.
This incident is said to have taken place during a hearing at the Federal High Court in Abuja, concerning activist Omoyele Sowore, who faces prosecution by the Department of State Services for purported cyber-related crimes.
As per reports, the judge in charge admonished the defence counsel regarding his manner of speaking to the court and purportedly commanded him to “come out and kneel down” during the proceedings. Lawyers present reportedly stepped in, urging caution, after which the judge postponed the case.
In a statement released by its President, Afam Osigwe, the NBA voiced its concerns regarding the reported directive related to defence counsel Marshall Abubakar, who was representing Sowore.
The association highlighted that, although courts have the power to impose punishments for contempt, such authority should be executed in accordance with recognised legal protocols that ensure fairness and honour the dignity of all involved.
“If a judge perceives that someone has behaved in a manner that disrespects the court, the judge is obliged to adhere to the established procedures for such matters,” the NBA remarked.
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It also called on legal practitioners to uphold professionalism, emphasising that advocacy should be conducted assertively but within the limits of courtesy and respect for the judiciary.
The NBA stressed that the connection between the judiciary and legal practitioners is crucial for justice administration and should be rooted in mutual respect.
In response to the incident, Sowore condemned the situation, questioning the state of justice in the nation and supporting his attorney’s actions in court.
Human rights attorney Inibehe Effiong also commented, labelling the alleged directive as unacceptable and asserting that corporal punishment has no role in court proceedings.
The NBA reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining the rule of law and professional standards, stating that it may collaborate with appropriate authorities to uphold the integrity of the legal system.
