You Cannot, Because You Are A Judge, Order A Lawyer To Kneel Down In Court  – NBA

By Ayodele Oni

A Judge of the Federal High Court who ordered a lawyer who appeared  before him to kneel down, over an alleged unruly behaviour, has come under attack from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

The NBA, criticised the reported courtroom incident involving Justice Mohammed Umar, and described the ordering of a lawyer to kneel down as contrary to judicial ethics and professional standards.

The incident occurred during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja in a case involving activist Omoyele Sowore, who is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services, DSS, over alleged cyber-related offences.

According to reports, the Judge cautioned defence Counsel, Marshall Abubakar, over his tone, while addressing the Court and at one point ordered him to “come out and kneel down.”

The situation was  de-escalated after interventions from other lawyers, prompting the Judge to adjourn proceedings.

In a statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe, the NBA expressed concern over the development, noting that such actions raise serious questions about courtroom conduct and adherence to due process.

“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the association stated, and emphasised that judicial authority must be exercised within established legal boundaries.

While acknowledging that Judges have the power to maintain order, the NBA stressed that directing any individual to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian law and falls short of expected standards on the bench.

The association further explained that although courts possess powers to punish contempt, such authority must be exercised through clearly defined legal procedures that uphold fairness and respect for human dignity.

It also urged legal practitioners to maintain professionalism at all times, noting that while lawyers are expected to advocate strongly for their clients, such advocacy must remain within the bounds of decorum and respect for the Court.

The NBA reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining high ethical standards within the legal profession, adding that it would engage appropriate authorities where necessary to preserve the integrity of the justice system.