The Nigerian Bar Association has criticised a directive by Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, ordering a lawyer to kneel during court proceedings.
The incident involved Marshall Abubakar, lead defence counsel to human rights activist Omoyele Sowore.
According to reports, the judge became displeased after Abubakar raised his voice while making submissions in court, insisting that the date fixed for the defence to open its case was not convenient for him. Justice Umar subsequently ordered the lawyer to step out of the bar area and kneel down.
Reacting to the development, the President of the NBA, Afam Osigwe, said no judge has the authority to order a legal practitioner to kneel in court.
“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,” Osigwe said in a statement.
He added that the dignity of the court must be preserved not only through its rulings but also through the manner in which judicial authority is exercised.
Osigwe explained that if a judge believes a person has acted in contempt of court, the proper legal procedure must be followed in addressing such conduct.
While noting that lawyers must always conduct themselves with restraint, professionalism and respect for the court, the NBA president said legal practitioners are equally obligated to advocate firmly and fearlessly on behalf of their clients.
He stressed that disagreements with the court should be expressed through appropriate legal channels and not in a manner that disrupts proceedings or undermines judicial authority.
“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,” he said.
