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By Oscar Okhifo
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has berated activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, over his conduct at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Similarly , Arise TV anchor, Reuben Abati, also faulted Sowore’s outburst, describing it as “aberrant behaviour” and an overreach.
The incident unfolded on Tuesday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Sowore was said to have had a heated exchange with Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Musibau Adetunbi, after attempting to address journalists from inside the courtroom.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NBA President, Afam Osigwe, faulted the development, stressing that courtrooms must not be turned into platforms for publicity or advocacy theatrics, as such actions undermine the discipline expected in judicial proceedings.
He noted, “Courtrooms in a constitutional democracy are open to the public not as arenas for performance, but as sanctuaries for the orderly administration of justice.
“Their openness promotes transparency and public confidence, yet it also imposes a duty of restraint on all who enter.”
The NBA expressed concern over Sowore’s conduct, noting that he entered the courtroom with individuals carrying recording equipment and appeared to be preparing for a press conference.
“He proceeded to set up what appeared to be preparations for a press conference within the courtroom itself. Members of his team attended to him, fanning his face and tidying his appearance in a manner akin to a broadcast setting,” the statement said.
The association further stated that Sowore moved into the inner bar, sat on a table, and began addressing “a range of national issues” while cameras recorded him, despite the fact that his case was not scheduled for hearing and he was not accompanied by any legal practitioner.
The development, it said, led to tension in the courtroom and a confrontation with Adetunbi, who objected to the conduct and insisted on maintaining courtroom decorum.
Reiterating the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the judiciary, the NBA stressed that courtrooms are solemn spaces dedicated to the administration of justice.
“While every Nigerian, including Mr. Sowore, is entitled to attend and observe court proceedings, such right must be exercised responsibly and with due regard to courtroom decorum,” the statement added.
The association maintained that public access to courtrooms does not extend to converting them into platforms for press briefings or actions capable of undermining the dignity and authority of the court.
Reacting to the incident, Arise tv news anchor, Reuben Abati backed the NBA’s position, describing Sowore’s conduct as an overreach and “aberrant behaviour.”
He said he would be keenly observing how the system responds, while urging Nigerians to regard the courtroom as a temple of justice that must be treated with utmost respect.
The Nigerian Bar Association reiterated its condemnation of Sowore’s actions, expressing solidarity with Musibau Adetunbi and other legal practitioners who insisted on maintaining order. It stressed that it remains committed to defending the dignity of the legal profession and preserving the sanctity of judicial proceedings.