Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised concerns over an incident at the Federal High Court of Nigeria in Abuja involving Justice Mohammed Umar and lawyer Marshall Abubakar.
Okay News reports that the incident occurred on Monday during court proceedings involving activist Omoyele Sowore.
According to reports, the trial judge allegedly directed Abubakar, who appeared as lead defence counsel to Sowore, to step out of the bar and kneel down after the lawyer raised his voice while addressing the court on the suitability of a hearing date. The judge was also reported to have threatened committal for contempt.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Afam Osigwe, president of the Nigerian Bar Association, said the association views the development with seriousness because of its implications for the dignity of the legal profession and courtroom conduct.
Osigwe said while judges have the authority to maintain order and discipline in their courts, such authority must be exercised within the bounds of the law and established judicial standards.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure and decorum,” he said.
“The power to punish for contempt is well recognised; however, 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 NBA stated that directing a legal practitioner, or any individual, to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian law and does not align with the standards of judicial conduct expected on the bench.
The association also noted that lawyers have a duty to conduct themselves with restraint, professionalism and respect for the court at all times.
It added that while legal practitioners are obligated to advocate firmly and fearlessly on behalf of their clients, such advocacy must be exercised within the bounds of courtesy and courtroom decorum.
The NBA called for calm and restraint from all parties and urged that any grievances arising from courtroom incidents be addressed through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels.
The association said it would engage relevant authorities where necessary to ensure that the rule of law, professional standards and judicial ethics are upheld.
