The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced the relocation of its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Enugu, following the recent imposition of emergency rule in Rivers.
In a statement signed late Thursday by NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), General Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, and Conference Planning Committee Chair Emeka Obegolu (SAN), the association cited concerns over the unconstitutional governance structure currently in place in Rivers State.
The NBA highlighted that although there was strong enthusiasm for Port Harcourt as the original host city—with high early registration figures reflecting that excitement—the state’s political climate has since changed drastically.
According to the association, Rivers is now being governed by a retired military officer appointed as Sole Administrator, whose command-style leadership disregards constitutional norms, court orders, and democratic processes. “Though clad in civilian attire, he governs as if under military rule,” the statement read.
Following widespread calls from members, the NBA convened an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on March 27, 2025, where it was unanimously agreed that proceeding with the conference in Rivers would amount to endorsing constitutional violations.
The NEC also criticized the suspension of elected officials in the state, noting that the declaration of a state of emergency failed to meet the requirements of Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution. It also condemned the National Assembly’s ratification of the move via a voice vote, calling it a serious breach of constitutional protocol.
“In light of these undemocratic developments, Port Harcourt is no longer a viable venue. Hosting our flagship event there would undermine the NBA’s commitment to the rule of law,” the association said.
The NBA confirmed that Enugu—also known as the Coal City—will now host the 2025 conference, citing its infrastructure and capacity to accommodate the event successfully.
On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly. Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.) was appointed to oversee the state’s administration during the suspension period.
