The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned an alleged courtroom incident involving Justice Mohammed Umar, calling the reported directive to a lawyer to kneel inconsistent with judicial standards and the dignity of the legal profession.
A Channels Television report indicated that the incident occurred during proceedings in a case involving Sowore, who the Department of State Services is prosecuting for alleged cyber-related offences.
According to the report, the presiding judge warned the defence counsel for his tone during submissions and, at one point, ordered him to “come out and kneel down” in open court. Other lawyers present reportedly intervened, pleading for leniency, after which the judge adjourned the matter and rose for the day.
The association, in a statement issued on Monday by its President, Afam Osigwe, said it was concerned about reports that the judge ordered Marshall Abubakar, who appeared as lead defence counsel to activist Omoyele Sowore, to kneel during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
According to the NBA, the directive reportedly followed a court exchange in which the lawyer raised his voice while addressing the judge regarding the suitability of a hearing date, prompting threats of committal for contempt.
The association said the development raises serious concerns about courtroom conduct and adherence to due process.
“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the statement read, stressing that judicial authority must always be exercised within established legal limits.
While acknowledging that judges are empowered to maintain order and discipline, the NBA emphasised that such powers are not absolute.
“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,” the association stated.