The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised concerns over reports of an incident involving a Federal High Court judge in Abuja and a defence lawyer, stating that no judge has the power under Nigerian law to order a legal practitioner to kneel in court.
In a statement posted on X on Tuesday, NBA President, Afam Osigwe, said the association was disturbed by reports that Justice Mohammed Umar allegedly directed a lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, to kneel in the courtroom during proceedings.
The incident was said to have occurred on Monday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, when Abubakar appeared as lead defence 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 the suitability of a hearing date. The judge was also reported to have threatened committal proceedings for contempt.
The association said it viewed the development with “utmost seriousness,” noting that it affects the dignity of the legal profession and the conduct of court proceedings.
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“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 stressed that such powers must follow defined legal procedures that ensure fairness and respect for those appearing before the court.
It added that directing a lawyer or any other person to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian law and does not align with the standards expected of judges.
According to the association, the dignity of the court must be reflected not only in its decisions 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 association also reminded lawyers of their duty to act with professionalism, restraint and respect in court at all times.
It noted that while lawyers are expected to represent their clients firmly, such advocacy must be carried out with courtesy and in line with courtroom decorum.
The NBA emphasised that the relationship between the Bar and the Bench is important to the administration of justice and is built on mutual respect.
It called for calm and urged that any concerns arising from courtroom incidents be handled through the appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels.
The association added that it would engage relevant authorities where necessary to ensure that the rule of law, professional standards and judicial ethics are maintained.