NBA Condemns Judge's Order for Lawyer to Kneel in Court, Upholds Legal Dignity
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a strong statement declaring that no judicial officer possesses the authority to order a lawyer or litigant to kneel or face the wall in court. This pronouncement came on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, following a disturbing incident at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice Mohammed Umar reportedly directed lawyer Marshall Abubakar to kneel during proceedings in a defamation case involving former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore.
Incident Sparks Outrage and Social Media Condemnation
The controversy erupted after Sowore took to social media to denounce the judge's actions, commending his lawyer, Barrister Marshal D. F. Abubakar, for standing his ground against the order. Sowore's post highlighted the lawyer's refusal to kneel, which led to the judge adjourning the case and leaving the courtroom. He criticized the NBA for perceived inaction, contrasting it with concerns over trivial matters like tinted glass permits, and lamented the state of justice in Nigeria.
The NBA, in response, condemned the incident that occurred on Monday, 16 March 2026, viewing it with utmost seriousness due to its implications for the dignity of the legal profession and the sanctity of the courtroom. In a statement signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), the association emphasized that the courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum.
NBA Clarifies Judicial Authority and Professional Standards
While judges are vested with the authority to maintain order and discipline in their courts, such authority must be exercised strictly within the bounds of the law and established judicial standards. The NBA acknowledged the power to punish for contempt but stressed that it is circumscribed by defined legal procedures designed to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all persons appearing before the court.
The association stated unequivocally that directing a legal practitioner or any person to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian laws and does not align with the standards of judicial conduct expected on the Bench. The dignity of the court must be preserved not only in outcome but also in process, and this includes the manner in which judicial authority is exercised. If a judge believes a person has acted contemptuously, the NBA insisted that the judge must follow accepted legal procedures for such allegations.
Call for Mutual Respect and Professional Conduct
The NBA also highlighted the corresponding duty of legal practitioners to conduct themselves with restraint, professionalism, and respect for the court at all times. While lawyers are entitled and obligated to advocate firmly and fearlessly for their clients, such advocacy must always be exercised within the bounds of courtesy and decorum. Disagreements with the court, no matter how strongly felt, must be expressed through proper legal channels and not in a manner that disrupts proceedings or undermines the authority of the court.
The association pointed out that the legal profession thrives on a delicate but essential balance rooted in mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench. This relationship is fundamental to the administration of justice and must be jealously guarded. The NBA called for calm and restraint on all sides and urged that any grievances arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary mechanisms.
Where necessary, the association pledged to engage with relevant authorities to ensure that the rule of law, professional standards, and judicial ethics are upheld. This stance reinforces the NBA's commitment to safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria's legal system and promoting a respectful and dignified courtroom environment.
