The Digest:
A Federal High Court judge, Mohammed Umar, threatened to commit Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore's lead lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, for contempt and ordered him to kneel in court during Monday's proceedings. The drama unfolded when Abubakar raised his voice while insisting that a proposed date for the defence opening was inconvenient. Other lawyers intervened to calm the situation. The SSS is prosecuting Sowore for allegedly calling President Tinubu a "criminal" on social media. The case was adjourned to April 13 for adoption of final written addresses on a no-case submission.
Key Points:
- The judge's order for a lawyer to kneel raises concerns about judicial conduct and the dignity of the legal profession.
- The confrontation highlights tensions in Sowore's high-profile trial involving alleged cybercrime charges.
- Defence tactics, including four days of cross-examining a single witness, suggest deliberate delays.
- The prosecution's objection to the July adjournment reflects a desire for a speedy trial.
- Sowore's political ambitions (planning to contest primaries) intersect with ongoing legal proceedings.
The case returns April 13 for adoption of addresses, with both sides preparing for the next phase while legal observers scrutinise the judge's conduct.
Sources: Premium Times, NAN, Federal High Court Abuja
