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, insisting that no judge has the authority under Nigerian law to compel a legal practitioner to kneel in court.
In a statement on Tuesday, NBA President, Afam Osigwe, said the association was troubled by reports that Justice Mohammed Umar allegedly instructed a lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, to kneel during court 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 trial judge reportedly issued the directive after the lawyer raised his voice while addressing the court over the appropriateness of a hearing date. The judge was also said to have threatened contempt proceedings.
The association stated that it views the development with “utmost seriousness,” noting its implications for 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 stressed that such authority is guided by clearly defined legal procedures designed to ensure fairness and respect for the rights and dignity of those appearing before the court.
It added that directing a lawyer or any individual to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian law and does not conform with the standards of judicial conduct expected of members of the bench.
According to the association, the dignity of the court must be upheld not only in its rulings but also in the manner 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 responsibility to maintain professionalism, restraint and respect for the court at all times.
It noted that while lawyers are expected to represent their clients firmly and fearlessly, such advocacy must be conducted within the bounds of courtesy and courtroom decorum.
The NBA emphasised that the legal profession depends on mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench, describing the relationship as essential to the administration of justice.
The association therefore called for calm and restraint, urging that any grievances arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels.
It added that where necessary, it would engage relevant authorities to ensure that the rule of law, professional standards and judicial ethics are upheld.