The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has officially announced that the location for its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) has been changed from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Enugu, the capital of Enugu State.
This alteration was made as a result of what the association terms an unconstitutional governance structure present in Rivers State. In a joint statement issued on Thursday, signed by Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN (President), Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara (General Secretary), and Emeka Obegolu, SAN (Chairman, AGC Planning Committee), NBA noted that the move was influenced by the ongoing state of emergency and the unlawful appointment of a Sole Administrator for Rivers State.
“The requests from our members, notably those advocating for a change of location, became more and more pressing,” the statement indicated.
“We engaged in discussions with the Chairmen of NBA branches in Rivers State and held an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) on March 27, 2025.
“The consensus was that it would be inappropriate for the NBA to conduct the AGC in a state being managed unconstitutionally by a Sole Administrator.”
The association expressed deep concerns regarding the selection of a retired military officer as Sole Administrator of Rivers State, emphasizing that he has ignored constitutional requirements, court decisions, and ongoing legal matters.
“Even though dressed in civilian attire, his governance resembles that of a military regime,” the statement claimed.
“His actions have undermined democratic institutions and processes, openly defying the rule of law without facing any repercussions.”
The NBA’s NEC further described the announcement of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, as a violation of Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution.
Related: Nigerian Bar Association Condemns President’s Declaration of State of Emergency in Rivers State
It criticized the National Assembly’s sanctioning of the emergency through a voice vote, arguing it did not satisfy the constitutionally required two-thirds majority, which constitutes “a significant constitutional infraction.”
“Even if the proper procedure had been followed, it would not legitimize an unconstitutional pronouncement,” the NEC remarked.
Prior to the emergency declaration, registration for the conference had seen a notable increase, reflecting members’ eagerness to attend the Port Harcourt event.
However, the political instability in Rivers State disrupted preparations and led to numerous requests for the NBA to reconsider its choice of venue.
“To host our flagship event under such circumstances would imply an implicit endorsement of constitutional violations and the erosion of the rule of law,” the NBA stated.
Following a conclusive decision made at the NEC and discussions with its members, the NBA announced Enugu as the revised site for the 2025 AGC.
Also Read: Alleged Plans To Extend Emergency Rule In Rivers Exposed By Fubara’s Commissioner
The organization highlighted Enugu’s historical significance, available infrastructure, and commitment to democratic governance as reasons for this choice.
“We are delighted to announce that the 2025 Annual General Conference will now be held in the historic Coal City of Enugu,” the statement conveyed.
“We encourage all members and stakeholders to fully support us as we embark on this new venture. Through unity, resolve, and a mutual commitment to our principles, we will ensure this transition is a great success.”
The NBA reiterated its commitment to constitutional order and democratic values, stating that this decision underscores the legal profession’s duty to uphold the rule of law.
