The Nigerian Bar Association has strongly criticised activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore over his conduct at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing it as a serious breach of courtroom decorum.
The incident occurred on Tuesday when Sowore engaged in a heated exchange with Senior Advocate of Nigeria Musibau Adetunbi after attempting to address journalists inside the courtroom. Adetunbi objected, insisting that the courtroom was not an appropriate venue for media engagement.
In response, Sowore pushed back, accusing the senior lawyer of intimidation. “You’re intimidating me and insulting my intelligence because you’re introducing yourself to me as a SAN. I also have my own SANs,” he said.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NBA President Afam Osigwe acknowledged that courtrooms in a democratic society are open to the public to promote transparency. However, he emphasised that such access must be governed by strict adherence to order, discipline, and respect for judicial authority.
The association expressed “grave concern” over Sowore’s actions, noting that he entered the courtroom with associates carrying recording devices and appeared to be setting up for a press briefing. According to the NBA, members of his entourage attended to him in a manner resembling a broadcast environment.
The situation escalated when Sowore reportedly moved into the inner bar, sat on a table, and began addressing various national issues—despite not having a scheduled case before the court and without legal representation present.
The NBA stated that the development created tension and disrupted the court’s atmosphere, leading to a standoff with Adetunbi, who sought to uphold proper courtroom conduct.
“Any behaviour that undermines the dignity of the court, intimidates legal practitioners, or disrupts proceedings is a grave affront to the rule of law,” the statement read.
The association further condemned attempts to turn courtrooms into platforms for “publicity or advocacy theatrics,” stressing that such actions are incompatible with the discipline required in judicial proceedings.
While reaffirming citizens’ right to observe court processes, the NBA clarified that this right does not extend to conducting press briefings or engaging in activities that could erode the authority of the court.
The body also expressed support for Adetunbi and other legal practitioners involved in maintaining order during the incident, urging court authorities to safeguard courtrooms as spaces dedicated solely to the orderly administration of justice.
Reiterating its commitment to the integrity of the legal profession, the NBA concluded that courtrooms must remain environments defined by respect, discipline, and adherence to due process.
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