NBA Condemns Sowore’s Courtroom Conduct, Flags Disruption of Judicial Decorum
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the actions of former presidential candidate and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore at the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Tuesday, describing them as a disruption of courtroom decorum.
According to reports, drama erupted when Sowore attempted to address journalists inside the courtroom, clashing with a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) who insisted that the courtroom was not an appropriate venue for a press briefing.
A video circulating online showed the SAN confronting Sowore, warning him against using the court for media purposes. Sowore, however, retorted, “You’re intimidating me and insulting my intelligence because you’re introducing yourself to me as a SAN. I also have my own SANs.”
In a statement on Wednesday, signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe, the association emphasised that courtrooms in a constitutional democracy are open to the public to promote transparency, but proceedings must be conducted with restraint, discipline, and respect for judicial authority.
“It is against this background that the Nigerian Bar Association views with grave concern the incident involving Mr Omoyele Sowore,” the statement read.
The NBA said Sowore entered the courtroom with individuals carrying cameras and recording equipment, setting up what appeared to be preparations for a press conference. Members of his team attended to him “in a manner akin to a broadcast setting,” after which he moved into the inner bar, sat on a table, and began addressing national issues, despite his case not being listed for hearing and without being accompanied by any legal practitioner.
The association noted that the conduct led to tension and a confrontation with SAN Musibau Adetunbi, who objected to the actions and insisted on maintaining courtroom order.
“Any conduct that undermines the dignity of the court, intimidates legal practitioners, or disrupts proceedings constitutes a grave affront to the rule of law,” the NBA stated.
The NBA further stressed that using a courtroom as a platform for publicity or advocacy theatrics is unacceptable and inconsistent with the discipline required in judicial proceedings.
While noting that every Nigerian has the right to attend court sessions, the association said such access “does not extend to converting the courtroom into a platform for press briefings or actions capable of undermining the dignity and authority of the court.”
The association condemned Sowore’s actions and expressed solidarity with SAN Musibau Adetunbi and other lawyers who insisted on upholding order. It also urged court authorities to ensure that courtrooms remain protected spaces for the orderly administration of justice, free from acts that could intimidate legal practitioners.
The NBA concluded that it would continue to defend the dignity of the legal profession and the sanctity of judicial proceedings, stressing that courtrooms must remain places of order, respect, and disciplined advocacy.
