Lawmaker Criticizes NBA Over Rivers Crisis And Calls For Refund Of N300 Million

Lawmaker Criticizes NBA Over Rivers Crisis And Calls For Refund Of N300 Million

Mr. Solomon Bob, a member of the House of Representatives from Rivers State, has openly criticized the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for its insincerity and hypocrisy regarding the ongoing crisis in his state. His remarks follow the NBA’s condemnation of the state of emergency declared in Rivers on April 10, 2025.

President Bola Tinubu proclaimed a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, due to escalating tensions involving Governor Siminilayi Fubara and the Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly, which is allied with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike. The situation intensified with impeachment threats against the governor, leading to sabotage of petroleum infrastructure and heightened fears of violence before the presidential intervention….READ MORE….

The declaration was later ratified by the National Assembly in accordance with Section 305 of the constitution.

In a statement released to the press on Thursday, Mr. Bob defended the emergency declaration, asserting that the NBA lacks the authority to dilute or amend the President’s discretionary powers as outlined in Section 305. He emphasized that the NBA cannot dictate what constitutes “extraordinary measures,” which are at the discretion of the President.

Bob further criticized the NBA’s legitimacy as a guardian of democracy and constitutionalism, stating that it has devolved into a faction prioritizing narrow interests instead of fulfilling its democratic role. He remarked that the association’s recent elections resemble mere coronations of regional or ethnic leaders rather than fair democratic processes.

Characterizing the NBA’s statement as a diversion, Bob described it as an affront, particularly after witnessing firsthand the detrimental leadership of Governor Fubara, whose actions have embarrassed the state.

He accused the NBA of “rank hypocrisy and insincerity,” arguing that the association remained silent while suspended Governor Fubara displayed unprecedented lawlessness. Bob claimed that the NBA has inadvertently formed a cozy relationship with Fubara, intending to use the upcoming Port Harcourt conference to sanitize what he considers the worst mismanagement witnessed in any Nigerian state.

He also asserted that the NBA’s statement inadequately addressed its financial interests, noting a significant advance payment from Fubara that was only acknowledged following public pressure for a refund. Bob labeled the NBA’s justification that the N300 million was a gift as unreasonable and indicative of a compromised association.

He has demanded the immediate return of the funds to the Rivers State government, warning that if the NBA fails to comply, the authorities in Port Harcourt should take necessary actions to recover the amount.