NBA Elections 2024: Drama, Intrigue, And The Importance Of Conceding Defeat -By Nuhu J. Egya, Esq., LLM

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) election on July 20, 2024, concluded with a mix of drama and intrigue that continues to resonate within the legal community. This election was unique due to the intense competition, strategic endorsements, and post-election controversies.

Three presidential candidates—Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN, Chukwuka Ikwuazom SAN, and Tobenna Erojikwe—shared not only a profession but also a community in Nnewi, Anambra. Despite several meetings aimed at unifying their candidacies to avoid conflict, all three chose to run, resulting in an election that ensured the NBA president would once again hail from Anambra.

Endorsements and Alliances

Endorsements played a significant role in this election, notably from the Yoruba ethnic group Egbe Amofin, which adopted six members for various positions. This included Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara for General Secretary and Mrs. Bolatumin Animasahun for 2nd Vice President, among others. Interestingly, Egbe Amofin endorsed Chukwuka Ikwuazom for president, raising questions about the basis for their choice.

Campaign Dynamics

The election witnessed vigorous campaigning from the current national executive, primarily in support of Chukwuka Ikwuazom. Meanwhile, Mazi Afam Osigwe, dubbed the “golden boy,” faced accusations of favoritism towards certain aspirants, deepening the divide among voters. Tobenna Erojikwe appeared to be running a more independent campaign.

Election Day and Record-Breaking Votes

On election day, lawyers globally cast their votes, leading to the victory of Mazi Afam Osigwe. Henry Barnabas Ehi emerged as a notable winner, securing the Assistant General Secretary position with a record-breaking 28,552 votes—the highest ever for a candidate in NBA elections.

Allegations of Irregularities

Following the results, both Tobenna and Chukwuka raised allegations of irregularities and manipulation. Their failure to concede defeat has sparked questions about the integrity of the election process. If the presidential election was manipulated, was the entire election compromised? Why did some candidates from Chukwuka’s camp, like Ojibara, win if there was manipulation? How did a young lawyer like Henry Barnabas Ehi achieve such a significant victory if the process was flawed?

The Negative Impact of Not Conceding Defeat

Refusing to concede defeat highlights a lack of sportsmanship and professional integrity, undermining the unity of the bar. Such actions can foster distrust in the electoral process, damage reputations, and hinder collaboration within the legal community. For lawyers, who should uphold the highest ethical standards, this behavior sets a poor example and can contribute to a divided bar.

Conclusion

While auditing the election results is essential to address any genuine concerns, baseless allegations of irregularities serve only to deepen divisions and erode trust. The NBA election of 2024 underscores the need for candidates to accept outcomes gracefully, promote unity, and maintain the integrity of the legal profession.

Nuhu J. Egya, Esq., LLM.
Notary Public
Chairman NBA Keffi Branch