Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has criticised the Nigerian Bar Association over its reaction to his conduct at the Federal High Court in Abuja, accusing the body of bias and misrepresentation of events.
Sowore described the association’s statement as “selective outrage,” alleging that it unfairly targeted him while ignoring more serious violations of the rule of law by powerful state actors.
The controversy followed a confrontation in court between Sowore and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria after he spoke with journalists while waiting for proceedings.
While the NBA condemned his actions as a breach of courtroom etiquette, Sowore rejected the claim, insisting that he only responded to questions from journalists present at the court.
He explained that he had gone to obtain a certified copy of a ruling in his case but encountered delays linked to fresh legal motions.
According to him, journalists approached him for comments during the wait, a practice he described as normal within the court environment.
Sowore also questioned the NBA’s silence in previous instances where security operatives allegedly violated court orders, arguing that such actions posed a greater threat to judicial integrity.
He further accused some lawyers involved in the incident of intimidation, claiming their actions were overlooked by the association.
He urged the NBA to maintain fairness and consistency, warning that selective reactions could undermine public confidence in the justice system.
