NBA Relocates 2025 Conference To Enugu, Cites Breakdown Of Democratic Governance In Rivers State

NBA Relocates 2025 Conference To Enugu, Cites Breakdown Of Democratic Governance In Rivers State

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has officially announced the relocation of its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) from Port Harcourt, Rivers State to Enugu, attributing the decision to recent political developments in Rivers that undermine constitutional governance and democratic principles…READ MORE…

In a statement issued late Thursday, signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), General Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, and Chairman of the AGC Planning Committee Emeka Obegolu (SAN), the association cited the imposition of undemocratic structures in Rivers State as a primary reason for the venue change.

The NBA noted that conference registration figures had been promising prior to the March 18, 2025 declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, highlighting members’ enthusiasm for the event. However, the appointment of a retired military officer as Sole Administrator by the federal government, and the subsequent suspension of democratic processes, prompted a reevaluation.

The association condemned what it described as a “command-style” approach to governance by the Sole Administrator, stating:

“Despite wearing civilian attire, his methods reflect military-style rule and disregard for constitutional norms and legal processes.”

After extensive consultations with NBA branch leaders in Rivers and an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on March 27, the NBA unanimously resolved to move the conference out of Port Harcourt. The NEC also criticized the National Assembly’s endorsement of the Sole Administrator’s appointment via a voice vote, which it said fell short of the constitutionally required two-thirds majority—calling it a serious breach of democratic procedure.

“Hosting our premier event in such an environment would risk legitimizing actions that contravene the Constitution and the rule of law,” the NBA said.

Reaffirming its commitment to upholding democratic values and legal order, the NBA declared the Sole Administrator’s appointment unconstitutional.

The association further announced that the 2025 AGC will now be held in Enugu, praising the city’s infrastructure and readiness to accommodate the scale and significance of the event.

“Preparations are already in motion to ensure a successful and impactful conference in the historic Coal City,” the statement concluded.