Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticised the conduct of activist Omoyele Sowore at the Federal High Court in Abuja, warning that courtrooms must not be turned into platforms for media engagement or public theatrics.
In a statement issued on March 24, 2026, the President of the NBA, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, stressed that while courts are open to the public in a constitutional democracy, such access comes with clear expectations of discipline and respect.
“The courtroom exists solely for adjudication, and its openness cannot be stretched to permit activities unrelated to that purpose,” the statement read.
The association expressed concern over what it described as a disruptive incident involving Sowore, who reportedly entered the courtroom with a group of individuals carrying recording devices and camera phones. According to the NBA, the activist appeared to be setting up for a press engagement within the courtroom premises.
“He proceeded to set up what appeared to be preparations for a press conference within the courtroom itself. Members of his team attended to him, fanning his face and tidying his appearance in a manner akin to a broadcast setting,” the statement noted.
The situation escalated when Sowore allegedly moved into the inner bar area, sat on a table, and began addressing “a range of national issues” while being filmed. The NBA pointed out that the activist’s case was not scheduled for hearing at the time and that he was not accompanied by legal counsel.
The development reportedly caused tension in the courtroom, leading to a confrontation with Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Musibau Adetunbi, SAN, who objected to the conduct and insisted on maintaining professional standards.
Reacting to the incident, the NBA emphasised the importance of preserving the sanctity of courtrooms, describing them as “solemn spaces dedicated to the administration of justice.”
“Any conduct that undermines the dignity of the court, intimidates legal practitioners, or disrupts proceedings constitutes a grave affront to the rule of law,” the association stated.
It further warned against using court premises for publicity or advocacy-driven displays, noting that such actions are incompatible with the discipline required in judicial proceedings.
While reaffirming the right of citizens to access courtrooms, the NBA cautioned that such rights must be exercised responsibly.
“Public access to the courts does not extend to converting the courtroom into a platform for press briefings or actions capable of undermining the dignity and authority of the court,” the statement added.
The association condemned Sowore’s actions and declared its support for Adetunbi and other legal practitioners who resisted the development.
“The NBA therefore condemns Mr. Sowore’s disruption of the courtroom environment and expresses solidarity with Musibau Adetunbi, SAN, and all lawyers who insisted on maintaining decorum,” it said.
The NBA also called on court authorities to take steps to safeguard courtrooms from activities that could threaten the orderly administration of justice or intimidate legal professionals.
Reiterating its commitment to upholding legal standards, the association concluded: “The courtroom must remain a place of order, respect, disciplined advocacy, and responsible public access, not spectacle, confrontation, or disorder.”