NBA protests over Rivers’ emergency rule, relocates annual conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced the relocation of its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Enugu, citing the federal government’s imposition of emergency rule in Rivers as unconstitutional.

The decision, made official in a statement issued late Thursday and jointly signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), General Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, and Chairman of the Annual General Conference Planning Committee (AGCPC) Emeka Obegolu (SAN), reflects mounting concerns over governance in the state.

According to the statement, the appointment of a retired military officer as Sole Administrator has disrupted preparations for the conference and cast doubts on the city’s suitability as host.

“The announcement that Port Harcourt, the Garden City, would host the 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) of our Association was met with widespread enthusiasm. Indeed, prior to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, registration figures had soared, reflecting the excitement and eagerness of members to attend. However, the unfortunate turn of events in Rivers State has understandably stalled the momentum and affected advanced preparations for the Conference.

“Currently, Rivers State is being governed by a retired military officer, appointed as a Sole Administrator, who operates with a command-style approach that disregards constitutional provisions, court decisions, and pending litigation. His actions have undermined democratic institutions and processes, flouting the rule of law with impunity. Though clad in civilian attire, he governs as though the state is under military rule.”

Following growing calls from members for a change of venue, the NBA leadership engaged with its branches in Rivers and convened an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on March 27.

“The voices of our members, particularly those calling for a change of venue, grew stronger over time. We convened meetings with the Chairmen of NBA branches in Rivers State and held an emergency session of the National Executive Council (NEC) on the 27th of March, 2025. The overwhelming consensus was that the NBA could not, in good conscience, proceed with the AGC in a state governed unconstitutionally by a Sole Administrator.”

The NEC further criticized the state of emergency, arguing it contravenes constitutional guidelines and questioning its approval by the National Assembly.

“The NEC reaffirmed that the state of emergency declared in Rivers State violates Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution. It further noted that the suspension of elected officials and democratic institutions contravenes Sections 11 and 188 of the Constitution. The purported ratification by the National Assembly, executed via voice vote rather than the constitutionally required two-thirds majority amounts to a grave constitutional subversion. Even if the proper procedure had been followed, it would not legitimize an unconstitutional proclamation,” the NBA said.

Maintaining its stance on the rule of law, the association said hosting the conference under the current conditions would be inconsistent with its values.

The event will now take place in Enugu, chosen for its readiness and alignment with constitutional principles.

“The NBA has taken a principled position in accordance with the law: the appointment of a Sole Administrator in Rivers State is unconstitutional. Consequently, and in alignment with the overwhelming position of NEC and the broader membership, we are compelled to relocate the 2025 AGC to a state where constitutional democracy remains intact.

“We are pleased to announce that the 2025 Annual General Conference will now be held in the historic Coal City of Enugu. The city possesses the infrastructure and capacity to host a conference of our 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.

“We call on all members and stakeholders to lend their full support as we embark on this new path. With unity, diligence, and a shared commitment to our values, we will make this transition a resounding success.”