NBA Condemns Judge's Order for Lawyer to Kneel in Court

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) criticized Justice Mohammed Umar for ordering lawyer Inibehe Effiong to kneel in court during a case involving activist Omoyele Sowore, who is facing prosecution by the Department of State Services for alleged cyber-related offenses. The NBA, led by President Afam Osigwe, stated that the judge's directive is inconsistent with judicial standards and the dignity of the legal profession.

The incident reportedly occurred during a court proceeding where Effiong raised his voice to address the judge, prompting the order to kneel. The NBA expressed serious concerns about courtroom conduct and the adherence to due process, emphasizing that while judges have the power to maintain order, they must operate within established legal limits.

The association reiterated that no legal practitioner should be compelled to kneel in court, highlighting the importance of mutual respect between the bar and the bench. Effiong described the order as unacceptable, asserting that there is no place for corporal punishment in a courtroom.