Date: March 17, 2026 l By Dalena Reporters
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the conduct of a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) judge who reportedly ordered a lawyer to kneel in court, describing the action as unlawful and inconsistent with established legal standards.
According to reports, the incident occurred during a courtroom disagreement over a hearing date, during which the lawyer was said to have raised his voice. In response, the presiding judge allegedly directed the legal practitioner to kneel—an order that has since sparked widespread outrage within Nigeria’s legal community.
In a swift reaction, the NBA emphasized that no judge has the authority under Nigerian law to subject a lawyer—or any legal practitioner—to such degrading treatment. The association maintained that courtroom discipline must always be exercised within the bounds of the law and respect for human dignity.
Legal experts and practitioners have described the incident as a violation of professional ethics and judicial conduct, warning that such actions could undermine public confidence in the judiciary. The NBA reiterated that the rule of law must guide all judicial proceedings, stressing that personal emotions or disagreements should never lead to actions that could be interpreted as abuse of power.
The association further noted that disciplinary mechanisms already exist within the legal system to address misconduct by lawyers, and these procedures must be followed rather than resorting to arbitrary or humiliating directives.
The controversy has reignited broader concerns about judicial accountability and the need for strict adherence to constitutional principles in Nigeria’s courts. Observers argue that maintaining professionalism and mutual respect between the bench and the bar is essential for preserving the integrity of the justice system.
As calls for accountability grow, the NBA is expected to pursue appropriate channels to ensure that the matter is addressed in line with legal and ethical standards, reinforcing its commitment to upholding the dignity of the legal profession.