The Nigerian Bar Association has announced the relocation of its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Enugu, citing the imposition of a state of emergency and concerns over constitutional violations in Rivers.
This decision comes in response to President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025. The move led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly for an initial six-month period. A retired military officer, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), was subsequently appointed as Sole Administrator of the state.
In a statement issued late Thursday, jointly signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), General Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, and Chairman of the Annual General Conference Planning Committee, Emeka Obegolu (SAN), the association expressed concerns over the authoritarian style of the Sole Administrator and its implications for democratic governance.
“Rivers State is currently under the administration of a retired military officer, appointed as a Sole Administrator, whose approach to governance mirrors that of a military regime,” the NBA stated.
“Despite wearing civilian clothes, his command-style governance disregards constitutional principles, court rulings, and ongoing legal processes.”
According to the association, while Port Harcourt had generated enthusiasm among members, with registration figures hitting impressive numbers ahead of the March 18 declaration, the unfolding political situation has stalled momentum and preparations.
“In good conscience, we cannot proceed with the AGC in a state where democratic institutions have been suspended and rule of law compromised,” the NBA said.
The NBA also highlighted that members across the country raised concerns about the conference’s location, leading to consultations with NBA branch chairpersons in Rivers and an emergency National Executive Council meeting on March 27.
“There was an overwhelming consensus at the NEC session that continuing with the AGC in Rivers State would signify tacit approval of the unconstitutional developments there,” the statement added.
The association condemned the process leading to the emergency declaration, describing it as a “constitutional aberration.” It argued that the procedure violated Sections 305, 11, and 188 of the 1999 Constitution, and noted that the National Assembly’s ratification of the emergency proclamation via voice vote, rather than the constitutionally mandated two-thirds majority, was deeply flawed.
“Even if due process had been followed, it would not legitimize the removal of elected leaders and the appointment of an unelected administrator,” the statement emphasized.
Announcing the new venue, the NBA said: “The 2025 Annual General Conference will now be held in the historic city of Enugu. Enugu has the infrastructure, hospitality, and capacity to host a conference of this magnitude, and we are confident this change will not diminish the quality and impact of the event.”
The association reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and constitutional democracy, stressing that it cannot appear to endorse unconstitutional actions through the venue of its flagship event.
