The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has criticized the conduct of former presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, following a heated incident at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday.
According to reports, tensions flared when Sowore engaged in a confrontation with a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) while attempting to speak with journalists داخل the courtroom. A widely circulated video captured the moment the lawyer challenged Sowore, stressing that the courtroom was not an appropriate venue for media engagement.
Sowore, however, pushed back, accusing the 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 during the exchange.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NBA President Afam Osigwe expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order and respect within judicial environments. While acknowledging that courtrooms in a constitutional democracy are open to the public to promote transparency, the association noted that such openness must be guided by discipline and respect for legal processes.
The NBA alleged that Sowore entered the courtroom accompanied by individuals carrying recording devices and appeared to be preparing for a press briefing. It further stated that members of his team attended to him in a manner resembling a broadcast setup.
According to the association, Sowore later moved into the inner bar area, sat on a table, and began addressing various national issues, despite the fact that his case was not scheduled for hearing and he was not accompanied by legal counsel.
Reaffirming its stance, the NBA stressed its commitment to upholding the dignity of the legal profession and preserving the sanctity of court proceedings. It reiterated that courtrooms must remain spaces defined by order, respect, and disciplined advocacy.
