The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has criticised Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja for directing a lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, to kneel down during court proceedings.
Abubakar, who is representing human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, angered the judge after raising his voice while addressing the court.
He had been arguing that the date fixed for the defence to begin its case was not convenient for him.
In response, the judge ordered him to step out of the bar area and kneel down in front of the courtroom.
Reacting to the incident, NBA President Afam Osigwe said such an order has no basis in law.
In a statement on Tuesday, Osigwe explained that asking a lawyer or anyone to kneel in court is not a recognised form of punishment and does not meet the expected standards of judicial behaviour.
“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,” he said.
“The dignity of the court must be preserved not only in outcome but also in process, and this includes the manner in which judicial authority is exercised.
“If a judge is of the view that a person has acted in a manner that is contemptuous of the court, the judge MUST follow the accepted way of conducting proceedings for such allegations.”
Osigwe also reminded lawyers of their responsibility to act with professionalism, respect, and self-control at all times.
At the same time, he noted that lawyers have a duty to defend their clients strongly and without fear.
However, Osigwe added that such advocacy must be done politely and within acceptable courtroom conduct.
He warned that even when lawyers disagree with a judge, they should express it through proper legal means and not in a way that disrupts proceedings or challenges the court’s authority.
“The legal profession thrives on a delicate but essential balance, one rooted in mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench.
“This relationship is fundamental to the administration of justice and must be jealously guarded,” the NBA president said.
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