The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has officially relocated its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu following President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State. The association cited concerns over the appointment of a sole administrator with a military-style approach as a reason for the move.
In a statement issued late Thursday, NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), General Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, and AGCPC Chairman Emeka Obegolu (SAN) expressed disappointment that the initial excitement over Port Harcourt’s selection as the host city had been undermined by the undemocratic actions in the state.
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The NBA reaffirmed its stance that the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State violates Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution. The association further criticised the appointment of a sole administrator, whose governance style was described as military-like, which it argued undermines democratic principles.
As a result, the NBA decided that holding its flagship event under such circumstances would imply tacit endorsement of constitutional violations. The conference will now be held in Enugu, the capital of Enugu State, known as the historic Coal City.
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