The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed serious concern over reports of an incident on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the Federal High Court, Abuja involving Honourable Justice Mohammed Umar and Mr. Marshall Abubakar, lead defence counsel for Omoyele Sowore.
According to reports, the judge allegedly directed the lawyer to step out of the Bar and kneel in court after raising his voice while discussing the suitability of a hearing date, also issuing threats of committal for contempt.
In a statement signed by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the NBA stressed that the courtroom is a temple of justice governed by law, procedure, and decorum. While judges have authority to maintain order, such powers must be exercised within legal bounds and established judicial standards.
Directing a lawyer—or anyone—to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction and undermines the dignity of both the legal profession and the judiciary.
The NBA highlighted that contempt powers are strictly defined to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for all parties. Any allegations of contempt must follow due process, and judicial authority should be exercised in a manner consistent with professional standards.
The Association also reiterated that legal practitioners are obligated to maintain professionalism, restraint, and respect in court, advocating firmly but courteously for their clients. Disagreements must be addressed through proper legal channels without disrupting proceedings or undermining the court’s authority.
The NBA called for calm and restraint from all parties and urged that grievances arising from courtroom incidents be handled through appropriate institutional and disciplinary mechanisms. The Association affirmed it will engage with relevant authorities where necessary to uphold the rule of law, professional ethics, and judicial standards.
This statement underscores the delicate balance and mutual respect essential between the Bar and the Bench, which the NBA says is vital to the administration of justice in Nigeria.