Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised concerns over a reported incident at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where a judge allegedly ordered a lawyer to kneel during proceedings.
The incident, said to have occurred on Monday, March 16, 2026, involved Justice Mohammed Umar and defence counsel Marshall Abubakar, who was representing activist Omoyele Sowore.
According to reports cited by the NBA, the presiding judge directed the lawyer to step out of the Bar and kneel, after he allegedly raised his voice while addressing the court over a hearing date. The judge was also said to have threatened committal proceedings for contempt.
Reacting to the development, the NBA President, Afam Osigwe, in a statement on Tuesday, described the situation as troubling and stressed its broader implications for the legal profession and courtroom standards.
“The Nigerian Bar Association is concerned about reports of an incident… involving Honourable Justice Mohammed Umar and a legal practitioner, Mr. Marshall Abubakar,” the statement read.
The association emphasised that while judges have the authority to maintain order in courtrooms, such powers must be exercised within established legal frameworks.
“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 NBA stated.
It added that although the power to punish for contempt exists, it is governed by strict procedures designed to ensure fairness and protect the dignity of all parties involved.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the statement noted, warning that judicial authority must be exercised in line with due process.
While criticising the reported action, the NBA also reminded lawyers of their duty to uphold professionalism in court.
“We reiterate that legal practitioners bear a corresponding duty to conduct themselves with restraint, professionalism, and respect for the court at all times,” the statement said.
The body acknowledged that lawyers are expected to represent their clients “firmly and fearlessly,” but cautioned that disagreements with the court must be expressed through proper legal channels.
The NBA called for restraint from all parties and urged that any disputes arising from courtroom incidents be handled through appropriate disciplinary and institutional mechanisms.
“The legal profession thrives on a delicate but essential balance, one rooted in mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench,” the association said.
It further assured that it would engage relevant authorities where necessary to ensure adherence to the rule of law and judicial ethics.