NBA condemns judge’s order for lawyer to kneel in Sowore case

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned a reported courtroom incident in which Justice Mohammed Umar allegedly instructed a lawyer to kneel during proceedings in a case involving activist Omoyele Sowore.

Sowore is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services over alleged cyber-related offences.

According to reports, the incident occurred after the presiding judge warned the defence counsel, Marshall Abubakar, over his tone while addressing the court about the suitability of a hearing date. At one point, Justice Umar reportedly ordered the lawyer to “come out and kneel down” in open court. Other lawyers present intervened, requesting leniency, before the judge adjourned the matter.

The NBA, in a statement issued by its President Afam Osigwe on Monday, emphasized that such directives are inconsistent with judicial standards and the dignity of the legal profession. “A judge directing a legal practitioner or indeed any person whatsoever to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under our laws and does not align with the standards of judicial conduct expected on the Bench,” the association said.

The association noted that while judges are empowered to maintain order and discipline, such authority is not absolute. Powers to punish for contempt must follow clearly defined procedures to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all parties.

The NBA also reminded lawyers to maintain decorum in court while advocating firmly and fearlessly for their clients.

Reactions from legal and human rights figures

Omoyele Sowore criticized the incident on X, questioning the state of justice in the country. “HOW DO YOU EXPECT JUSTICE IN A COUNTRY WHERE A JUDGE ORDERS A SOLID LAWYER TO KNEEL DOWN…?” he tweeted, highlighting that his lawyer maintained composure during the exchange.

Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong also condemned the reported directive, describing it as unacceptable. “Corporal punishment has no place in the temple of justice. It is better to be imprisoned as a lawyer than to be compelled to kneel right in the courtroom,” Effiong said.

The NBA reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics. The association stressed that any grievances arising from courtroom incidents should be addressed through institutional and disciplinary channels rather than public spectacle. It also highlighted the importance of mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench as fundamental to the administration of justice.

The association’s statement underlined that the courtroom must remain a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum. While acknowledging the necessity for judges to maintain order, the NBA insisted that all disciplinary actions adhere strictly to recognized legal frameworks to protect the rights and dignity of all participants.

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Maintaining judicial integrity and public trust

The incident has sparked debates about courtroom decorum, the scope of judicial authority, and professional conduct in high-profile cases. Legal experts emphasize that maintaining public trust in the judiciary requires adherence to established procedures and the rejection of actions perceived as humiliating or arbitrary.

Sowore’s case has drawn national attention, and this incident adds to ongoing discussions about the balance of power between judges and lawyers, and the appropriate mechanisms for handling disagreements in court. Analysts say such controversies may influence public perception of judicial fairness and the integrity of legal proceedings.

The NBA has called on relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, ensuring accountability while reinforcing the professional standards expected within Nigeria’s justice system. Lawyers and judges alike are reminded that the credibility of the legal process depends on maintaining decorum, fairness, and respect in all proceedings.

Through these measures, the NBA aims to safeguard the administration of justice, protect legal practitioners from undue humiliation, and preserve public confidence in Nigeria’s judiciary.