NBA Relocates 2025 Annual General Conference To Enugu, Cites Constitutional Crisis In Rivers State
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced Enugu as the new host city for its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC), citing constitutional breaches and a breakdown of democratic governance in Rivers State as reasons for the relocation from Port Harcourt.
This decision was formally communicated in a statement jointly signed by the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN; the General Secretary, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara; and the Chairman of the Annual General Conference Planning Committee (AGCPC), Emeka Obegolu, SAN.
According to the statement dated April 10, 2025, the initial choice of Port Harcourt had been met with great enthusiasm, reflected in a surge in early registration numbers. However, the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, disrupted planning and raised critical concerns about the appropriateness of holding the Association’s flagship event in a state under such political uncertainty.
The NBA leadership described the current governance structure in Rivers State as unconstitutional, pointing to the appointment of a retired military officer as Sole Administrator. They noted that the appointee governs with a command-style approach, disregarding court orders, constitutional provisions, and ongoing legal proceedings—effectively undermining the rule of law.
In response to mounting concerns and widespread calls from members for a change of venue, the NBA held consultations with branch chairmen in Rivers State and convened an emergency session of the National Executive Council (NEC) on March 27, 2025. The NEC overwhelmingly agreed that the NBA could not, in good conscience, proceed with the Conference in a state where democratic institutions have been suspended.
The NEC further emphasised that the state of emergency contravenes Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, while the removal of elected officials and legislative authority violates Sections 11 and 188. The purported ratification of the emergency by the National Assembly through a voice vote, rather than the constitutionally required two-thirds majority, was described as a serious constitutional aberration. Even if proper procedures had been followed, the statement noted, such ratification would still not legitimise an unconstitutional act.
“In the face of these undemocratic developments, Port Harcourt is no longer a justifiable venue for the 2025 AGC,” the statement read. “To proceed under these circumstances would signal passive endorsement of constitutional violations and the erosion of the rule of law.”
The Association affirmed its commitment to upholding democratic values and constitutional order, declaring the appointment of a Sole Administrator in Rivers State as “unconstitutional.” It further stated that the decision to relocate the Conference aligns with the will of its members and the principles of the Association.
Enugu, also known as the Coal City, has now been confirmed as the new venue for the 2025 AGC. The NBA expressed confidence in Enugu’s capacity and infrastructure to host a conference of such magnitude and reassured members of a seamless and impactful event despite the venue change.
The leadership called on all members and stakeholders to support the transition and rally behind the new plans. “With unity, diligence, and shared commitment to our values, we will make this transition a resounding success,” the statement concluded.
READ FULL STATEMENT HERE>>>>>>>NBA 2025 AGC VENUE ANNOUNCEMENT
