The Nigerian Bar Association has strongly criticized a reported incident in the Federal High Court, Abuja involving Justice Mohammed Umar, where a lawyer was allegedly ordered to kneel, saying the act contradicts judicial standards and undermines the dignity of the legal profession
According to reports, the episode occurred during proceedings in a case involving Omoyele Sowore, who is facing prosecution by the Department of State Services over alleged cyber-related offences.
According to the reports, the judge admonished the defence lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, over his tone while making submissions and, at one point, directed him to “come out and kneel down” in open court.
Other lawyers present intervened, requesting leniency, after which the judge adjourned the case and recessed for the day.
In a statement on Monday, NBA President Afam Osigwe expressed concern over the directive, noting it reportedly stemmed from an exchange in which the lawyer raised his voice while questioning the suitability of a hearing date, prompting threats of committal for contempt.
The NBA said the incident raises serious questions about courtroom conduct and adherence to due process.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the statement said, emphasizing that judicial authority must always operate within established legal limits.
While acknowledging judges’ power to maintain order, the NBA stressed that such authority is not absolute.
“A judge directing a legal practitioner or indeed any person 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 NBA further highlighted that although contempt powers are recognised, they are bound by clearly defined procedures designed to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for all parties.
“If a judge believes a person has acted contemptuously, the judge MUST follow the accepted procedures for handling such matters,” the NBA added.
The association also reminded lawyers to uphold professional responsibility, stressing that advocacy must always remain within the bounds of courtesy and decorum. “Disagreements with the court, no matter how strongly felt, must be expressed through proper legal channels,” the NBA said.
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Power abuse