Amanze Chinonye
The Nigerian Bar Association has strongly condemned the actions of activist Omoyele Sowore at the Federal High Court, Abuja, describing his conduct as a breach of courtroom decorum and a threat to the sanctity of judicial proceedings.
In a statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe, the association expressed “grave concern” over an incident on March 24, 2026, where Sowore allegedly attempted to stage what resembled a media briefing inside the courtroom.
According to the NBA, Sowore entered the courtroom accompanied by supporters carrying recording devices and camera phones, with members of his team reportedly setting up what appeared to be a broadcast environment. He was also said to have been attended to in a manner consistent with media appearances before cameras were positioned.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHe subsequently moved into the inner bar, sat on one of the tables, and began addressing what he described as “a range of national issues,” despite not having any case scheduled for hearing and without being accompanied by legal counsel.
The development triggered tension within the courtroom when Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Musibau Adetunbi, objected to the conduct, insisting that the courtroom could not be used for press briefings.
The situation reportedly escalated into a heated exchange, with Sowore resisting the intervention and asserting his right to be present and speak in a public courtroom.
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The incident disrupted activities and drew wider attention within legal circles, reflecting a growing tension between courtroom protocol and the increasing use of public institutions as platforms for activism and media engagement.
The NBA emphasised that while courtrooms are open to the public in line with constitutional principles of transparency, such access is not without limits. It stressed that court premises are designated strictly for the administration of justice and must not be turned into platforms for publicity or advocacy displays.
“Courtrooms are solemn spaces dedicated to the administration of justice,” the statement said, warning that any behaviour capable of disrupting proceedings, intimidating legal practitioners, or undermining judicial authority constitutes a serious affront to the rule of law.
The association reiterated that the right of citizens to observe court proceedings must be exercised responsibly, adding that public access does not extend to using courtrooms for press briefings or other unrelated activities.
It also expressed solidarity with Adetunbi and other lawyers who resisted the development, and called on court authorities to enforce stricter measures to preserve order within courtrooms.
Sowore, a prominent activist and founder of Sahara Reporters, has a history of high-profile confrontations with state authorities and legal institutions, a background that has often placed him at the centre of contentious public and judicial encounters.
The NBA reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the dignity of the legal profession and maintaining the courtroom as a space for disciplined legal advocacy, rather than “spectacle, confrontation, or disorder.”
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
