Rivers NBA Branches Condemn Query Against Port Harcourt Chair, Demand Immediate Withdrawal
Eight Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) branch chairmen in Rivers State have strongly condemned the recent query issued to Cordelia Eke, Chairman of the NBA Port Harcourt Branch, by the state’s Administrator through the Ministry of Justice.
Query Sparks Outrage Among Lawyers
The query, dated April 25 and signed by Director of Administration Ebiriemg Deresima, accused Eke of “serious misconduct.” Authorities claimed she co-authored a communique that criticized the Administrator’s “brazen acts of lawlessness” and alleged constitutional violations, including suppression of democratic institutions.
The Ministry stated that Eke’s actions violated Public Service Rules and were inappropriate for a civil servant.
NBA Chairmen Denounce Intimidation
In a joint statement on Monday, NBA branch chairmen across Rivers described the query as an attempt to intimidate Eke and suppress dissent. They clarified that Eke issued the communique in her capacity as an elected NBA leader—not as a government employee.
The chairmen noted the statement reflected the collective position of all NBA branches in the state and followed formal internal deliberations.
National NBA Leadership Supports Eke
The chairmen emphasized that their position aligns with the stance of NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN. They warned that the Administrator’s actions undermine free speech and democratic principles.
“The query is a tool of intimidation,” they said. “We will not be silenced from defending the rule of law and the people’s rights.”
Demands for Immediate Withdrawal
Calling the query an “unfortunate act,” the chairmen demanded its immediate withdrawal. They argued that the Administrator’s actions contradict the peacekeeping justification for his appointment and instead foster political repression.
“The NBA exists to uphold the rule of law,” they added. “We will continue speaking truth to power without fear.”
Standing Firm for Justice
Signatories to the statement include Dr. Hilda Desmond-Ihekaire (Ahoada), Simple Dioha, Esq. (Isiokpo), Abiye Abo, Esq. (Degema), Dr. N. A. Duson (Bori), and Dr. Celestine Nwankwo (Okehi).
They reaffirmed their commitment to resist any form of harassment targeting NBA leadership, legal professionals, or Rivers citizens.
