NBA Shifts its 2025 Annual Conference to Enugu
posted 11th April 2025
NBA Shifts its 2025 Annual Conference to Enugu
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced that its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) will now be held in the historic Coal City of Enugu, abandoning earlier plans to host the event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The decision, detailed in a statement signed by NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, General Secretary Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, and Chair of the AGCPC, Emeka Obegolu, SAN, follows concerns over the deteriorating political and security situation in Rivers State.
The NBA had initially selected Port Harcourt as the venue for the 2025 AGC, a choice met with enthusiasm by members. However, the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on 18 March 2025 and the subsequent appointment of a Sole Administrator have significantly altered the landscape. According to the NBA, the Sole Administrator’s governance style, which prioritises military authority over constitutional provisions, has undermined democratic institutions, court decisions, and ongoing litigation. The statement highlighted that Rivers State is currently governed “through the rule of law with impunity clad in civilian attire,” rendering it unsuitable for the NBA’s flagship event.
The NBA’s National Executive Council (NEC) convened an emergency session on 27 March 2025, where it resolved that hosting the AGC in Rivers State would be untenable. The NEC cited the unconstitutional governance structure under the Sole Administrator, which violates Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution. The council noted that the state of emergency lacked the required ratification by the National Assembly, as mandated by Sections 11 and 188 of the Constitution, further delegitimising the proclamation.
In a strongly worded rebuke, the NBA condemned the appointment of the Sole Administrator, describing it as a violation of constitutional democracy. The association argued that holding the AGC in Port Harcourt would implicitly endorse an unconstitutional regime and undermine the rule of law, a principle central to the NBA’s mission. Instead, the NEC unanimously selected Enugu, citing its robust infrastructure and capacity to host a conference of the AGC’s scale and significance.
“We are confident that, with concerted efforts, this change of venue will not compromise our commitment to delivering a successful and impactful Conference,” the statement read. The NBA called on its members and stakeholders to support the transition, expressing optimism that unity and diligence would ensure the event’s success. “May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
The decision has sparked discussions within legal and political circles, with many praising the NBA for prioritising constitutional integrity. Enugu, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is now poised to welcome thousands of legal professionals for the 2025 AGC, marking a significant moment for the city and the NBA.
As preparations begin, the NBA remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding democratic values, ensuring the 2025 conference reflects its dedication to justice and the rule of law.
