NBA Condemns Sowore Over Alleged Courtroom Misconduct In Abuja
NBA Condemns Sowore Over Alleged Courtroom Misconduct in Abuja The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the conduct of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, over an incident at the Federal High Court in Abuja where he allegedly attempted to hold a media briefing inside a courtroom. In a statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe, the association described Sowore’s actions as a serious breach of courtroom etiquette and judicial discipline, stressing that such behaviour undermines the sanctity of the judicial process. According to the NBA, Sowore entered the courtroom accompanied by individuals carrying recording devices and appeared to prepare for what resembled a press conference within the court premises. Osigwe stated that while courtrooms in a democratic society are open to the public, they are not platforms for publicity or advocacy theatrics.
The development reportedly caused tension within the courtroom and led to a confrontation between Sowore and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who objected to the attempt to address journalists inside the court.
The NBA noted that Sowore’s case was not scheduled for hearing at the time, and he was not accompanied by legal counsel when the incident occurred. Reiterating its position, the association stressed that courtrooms are solely meant for adjudication and must remain spaces of order, discipline, and respect for judicial authority.
- Does not permit turning courtrooms into media stages
- Must be exercised with restraint and responsibility
- Should not undermine the dignity of the judiciary
The NBA further described any act capable of disrupting proceedings or intimidating legal practitioners as a “grave affront to te rule of law.” However, Sowore has denied organising a media briefing inside the courtroom, insisting that the NBA’s claims were inaccurate. He explained that he was at the court to obtain a Certified True Copy of a ruling related to a previous case and only interacted with journalists present at the premises as part of normal court environment engagement.
The activist accused the NBA of misrepresenting events, stating that the allegations were “built on falsehoods.” The association reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the dignity of the legal profession and maintaining order within courtrooms across the country. It called on court authorities and stakeholders to ensure that judicial spaces remain:
- Free from disruption
- Respectful and orderly
- Focused strictly on the administration of justice
The incident has reignited debate over courtroom conduct, media access, and the boundaries of public participation in judicial proceedings. Legal observers say the controversy underscores the need for clearer enforcement of courtroom rules to balance transparency with discipline in Nigeria’s justice system.
