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NBA Relocates 2025 Annual Conference From Rivers To Enugu, Condemns ‘Dictatorial’ Sole Administrator
Currently, Rivers State is being governed by a retired military officer, appointed as a Sole Administrator, who operates with a command-style approach that disregards constitutional provisions, court decisions, and pending litigation,” the NBA stated.
Abuja, Nigeria– The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced the relocation of its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) from Port Harcourt, Rivers State to Enugu, the capital of Enugu State, citing what it described as “unconstitutional and dictatorial governance” by a retired military officer appointed as Sole Administrator of the state.
In a joint statement released on Thursday and signed by NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN; General Secretary Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara; and Emeka Obegolu, SAN, Chair of the AGC Planning Committee, the Association expressed grave concern over what it termed “a command-style approach to governance” that disregards court decisions, legal processes, and constitutional provisions.
“Currently, Rivers State is being governed by a retired military officer, appointed as a Sole Administrator, who operates with a command-style approach that disregards constitutional provisions, court decisions, and pending litigation,” the NBA stated.
“Though clad in civilian attire, he governs as though the state is under military rule.”
The NBA’s announcement comes in the wake of a controversial state of emergency declared in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, which resulted in the suspension of elected officials and democratic institutions.
The NBA condemned the move, arguing that it violates several provisions of the 1999 Constitution, including Sections 305, 11, and 188.
“The purported ratification by the National Assembly, executed via voice vote rather than the constitutionally required two-thirds majority, amounts to a grave constitutional subversion,” the statement read.
“Even if the proper procedure had been followed, it would not legitimize an unconstitutional proclamation.”
According to the NBA, the initial announcement that Port Harcourt would host the 2025 AGC was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, with registration figures soaring early on. However, the unfolding political crisis in Rivers State has since dampened the mood and disrupted preparations.
“The voices of our members, particularly those calling for a change of venue, grew stronger over time,” the statement continued.
“We convened meetings with the Chairmen of NBA branches in Rivers State and held an emergency session of the National Executive Council (NEC) on the 27th of March, 2025. The overwhelming consensus was that the NBA could not, in good conscience, proceed with the AGC in a state governed unconstitutionally by a Sole Administrator.”
The NBA emphaemphasised to hold its flagship annual event in Rivers State under the current political circumstances would amount to a “tacit endorsement of constitutional violations and subversion of the rule of law.”
As a result, the 2025 AGC has now been relocated to Enugu, a city NBA officials say is capable of hosting an event of its scale and importance.
“We are pleased to announce that the 2025 Annual General Conference will now be held in the historic Coal City of Enugu.
“We are confident that, with concerted efforts, this change of venue will not compromise our commitment to delivering a successful and impactful Conference.”
The NBA concluded by calling on its members and stakeholders to support the new direction: “With unity, diligence, and a shared commitment to our values, we will make this transition a resounding success.”
The Association reaffirmed its dedication to upholding constitutional democracy, the rule of law, and institutional integrity.
“May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement added.