By Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
The President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Afam Osigwe (SAN), has stated that no judge has the authority to compel a lawyer to kneel in court or threaten committal for contempt outside established legal procedures.
Osigwe’s position, made public via his official channels on Thursday, follows reports of an incident on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the Federal High Court, involving Justice Mohammed Umar and a legal practitioner, Marshall Abubakar.
Abubakar was appearing as lead defence counsel to activist Omoyele Sowore.
According to reports, the trial judge allegedly directed the lawyer to step out of the Bar and kneel after he raised his voice while addressing the court on the suitability of a hearing date.
The judge was also said to have threatened contempt proceedings.
Reacting, the NBA said it views the development with “utmost seriousness,” citing its implications for the dignity of the legal profession and the sanctity of the courtroom.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” Osigwe stated, noting that while judges have the authority to maintain order, such powers must be exercised strictly within the bounds of the law and established judicial standards.
He emphasised that although the power to punish for contempt is recognised, it is regulated by clearly defined procedures designed to ensure fairness, objectivity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all parties.
The NBA president maintained that ordering a legal practitioner or any person—to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian law and does not align with acceptable standards of judicial conduct.
He further stressed that where a judge considers an act contemptuous, due process must be followed in addressing such conduct.
Osigwe also reminded lawyers of their professional obligations, urging them to maintain restraint, decorum, and respect for the court at all times, even while advocating firmly on behalf of clients.
He described the relationship between the Bar and the Bench as a delicate but essential balance rooted in mutual respect, which is fundamental to the administration of justice.
The NBA called for calm and restraint, urging that grievances arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels, while affirming its readiness to engage relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law and professional standards.
