The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised concerns over reports that a Federal High Court judge allegedly directed a lawyer to kneel during proceedings in Abuja.
According to sources, the incident occurred on Monday, 16 March 2026, when Honourable Justice Mohammed Umar allegedly asked Mr. Marshall Abubakar, lead defence counsel for Mr. Omoyele Sowore, to step out of the Bar and kneel after raising his voice while addressing the court over a hearing date. Reports also suggest that the judge threatened the lawyer with committal for contempt.
In a statement, the NBA described the alleged action as “unacceptable” and emphasized that no judge has the authority to order a lawyer to kneel in court. The association noted that while judges are empowered to maintain decorum and punish contempt, such authority must follow established legal procedures that respect the rights and dignity of all courtroom participants.
The NBA called on legal practitioners to continue advocating professionally and respectfully, stressing that disagreements with judicial officers should be handled through proper legal channels rather than actions that disrupt court proceedings.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, President of the NBA, urged calm and restraint from all parties, saying the association would engage with relevant authorities where necessary to uphold the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics.
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