By our Reporter
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has criticised what it described as the misuse of court premises for media activities, warning that courtrooms must not be turned into platforms for press briefings or public spectacle.
The position followed an incident involving activist Omoyele Sowore at the Federal High Court, Abuja, on March 24, 2026.
In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), the NBA expressed concern over Sowore’s conduct, alleging that he entered the courtroom with individuals carrying recording devices and appeared to prepare for a media engagement within the court.
According to the association, Sowore proceeded to the inner bar, sat on a table, and addressed what he described as national issues while being recorded, despite not having any matter scheduled for hearing and without the presence of legal counsel.
The NBA noted that the situation created tension in the courtroom and led to a confrontation with Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Musibau Adetunbi, who objected to the conduct and insisted on maintaining decorum.
Describing courtrooms as solemn spaces dedicated to the administration of justice, the association stated that any act capable of undermining the dignity of the court or disrupting proceedings constitutes a serious affront to the rule of law.
The NBA emphasised that while members of the public have the right to access courtrooms, such access must be exercised with discipline, respect, and within established boundaries.
“Courtrooms are not arenas for performance or publicity. Their openness is for transparency, not for activities unrelated to adjudication,” the statement said.
The association condemned the incident and expressed solidarity with legal practitioners who resisted what it termed a breach of courtroom standards.
It also called on court authorities to ensure stricter enforcement of courtroom rules to preserve the sanctity of judicial proceedings and protect legal practitioners from intimidation.
The NBA reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the dignity of the legal profession, stressing that the courtroom must remain a place of order, disciplined advocacy, and respect for judicial authority.
