The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has criticized former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore for his behavior at the Federal High Court in Abuja, calling it a disruption of courtroom etiquette. The incident occurred on Tuesday when Sowore attempted to address journalists inside the courtroom and was cautioned by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Musibau Adetunbi.
A video circulating online shows Adetunbi confronting Sowore and the media, emphasizing that the courtroom is not an appropriate place for a press conference. Despite this, Sowore argued that engaging with the media was necessary while waiting for the judge to return.
The NBA President, Afam Osigwe SAN, reiterated that courtrooms are meant for adjudication only, not for public performances. Osigwe emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum and respect for judicial authority within the courtroom.
The NBA condemned Sowore’s actions, expressing support for Adetunbi and other lawyers upholding courtroom decorum. Osigwe stated that courtrooms in a democratic society should be open to the public but must be respected as spaces for the orderly administration of justice, not for publicity or confrontation.
The incident involving Sowore on March 24th, 2026, at the Federal High Court in Abuja was deemed concerning by the NBA. Sowore was captured setting up what seemed to be a press conference in the courtroom, which led to a confrontation and tense atmosphere.
Osigwe stressed that any behavior undermining the dignity of the court or intimidating legal practitioners is unacceptable and goes against the rule of law. The NBA called on court authorities to ensure that courtrooms remain spaces for the orderly administration of justice and free from disruptions.
The statement concluded by affirming the NBA’s commitment to defending the legal profession’s dignity and preserving the sanctity of judicial proceedings. The courtroom should uphold order, respect, disciplined advocacy, and responsible public access, not become a platform for spectacle or disorder.
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