The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed concern over an alleged incident at the Federal High Court in Abuja involving Justice Mohammed Umar and legal practitioner Marshall Abubakar.
The incident reportedly occurred on Monday, March 16, during proceedings in a case where Abubakar appeared as lead defence counsel to activist Omoyele Sowore.
According to reports, the presiding judge directed the lawyer to step out of the Bar and kneel after he raised his voice while addressing the court over a hearing date.
The judge was also said to have threatened contempt proceedings.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the NBA described the development as troubling, warning that it raises serious concerns about 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,” the association stated, emphasizing that while judges have the authority to maintain order, such powers must be exercised within established legal and ethical boundaries.
The NBA clarified that although courts possess the power to punish for contempt, such authority is guided by due process and must respect the rights and dignity of all parties involved.
“A judge directing a legal practitioner or any person to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under our laws and does not align with expected standards of judicial conduct,” the statement added.
The association stressed that the dignity of the judiciary must be reflected not only in its rulings but also in how judicial authority is exercised, urging that any issues of contempt be addressed through proper legal procedures.
At the same time, the NBA reminded lawyers of their obligation to maintain professionalism and decorum in court, noting that advocacy must remain respectful, even when robust.
Highlighting the importance of mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench, the NBA described the relationship as central to the administration of justice.
The association’s president called for calm, urging that grievances arising from such incidents be handled through appropriate institutional and disciplinary channels, while reaffirming the NBA’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and judicial ethics.
