NBA Criticizes Sowore Over Media Interview Inside Abuja Courtroom

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, for conducting a media interview within the premises of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, reportedly caused tension inside the courtroom and triggered a heated exchange between Sowore and a senior lawyer who objected to his actions.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) described the development as inappropriate and contrary to the expected standards of conduct within judicial spaces. While acknowledging that courtrooms are open to the public, Osigwe stressed that such openness does not permit activities that undermine the purpose and dignity of the court.

According to him, courtrooms are designed for the orderly administration of justice and not for public displays or media engagements. He noted that while transparency is essential in a democratic system, it must be balanced with discipline and respect for judicial authority.

Inside the Courtroom Incident

Providing details of what transpired, the NBA said Sowore entered the courtroom accompanied by individuals carrying recording devices and mobile phones. His team reportedly began preparing him in a manner similar to a broadcast setting, adjusting his appearance while cameras were positioned.

He was said to have moved into the inner bar, sat on a table, and began addressing what he described as national issues, despite the fact that his case was not scheduled for a hearing at the time. The absence of legal representation during the episode further raised concerns among legal practitioners present.

The situation escalated when a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Musibau Adetunbi, challenged the conduct and insisted that courtroom decorum be maintained. This confrontation contributed to the disruption observed during the session.

The NBA described the sequence of events as troubling, noting that such actions risk eroding the solemnity of the courtroom and could create an atmosphere of disorder.

NBA Reaffirms Courtroom Standards

Reacting to the development, the association emphasised that courtrooms are not venues for publicity or activism but spaces dedicated strictly to legal proceedings. Osigwe warned that turning such environments into platforms for media engagement or advocacy undermines the integrity of the justice system.

He further stated that while citizens have the right to attend court proceedings, that right must be exercised responsibly. Activities capable of distracting proceedings, intimidating lawyers, or diminishing respect for the court are unacceptable, whether the court is in session or not.

The NBA also expressed support for lawyers who spoke out against the incident, particularly those who insisted on maintaining order during the disruption. It called on court authorities to take steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future and to ensure that courtrooms remain protected spaces for legal practice.

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Reiterating its stance, the association affirmed its commitment to upholding the dignity of the legal profession and preserving the sanctity of judicial proceedings. It concluded that the courtroom must remain a place defined by order, discipline, and respect, not a stage for spectacle or confrontation.