The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has decided to move its upcoming Annual General Conference (AGC) from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Enugu State due to the state of emergency currently in effect.
NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN) announced this decision in a letter dated April 10, 2025, which was shared with the media. He explained that the relocation was the consensus of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the wider membership of the association.
Although there was initial enthusiasm for holding the conference in Port Harcourt, the emergency rule declared on March 18, 2025, along with the appointment of retired Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator, halted preparations for the event.
Osigwe’s letter stated, “Rivers State is currently governed by a retired military officer who operates with a command-style approach, ignoring constitutional provisions, court rulings, and ongoing litigation.”
He further pointed out that the state of emergency violates Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, and the suspension of elected officials contravenes Sections 11 and 188. The National Assembly’s ratification via voice vote, rather than the required two-thirds majority, constitutes a serious constitutional breach.
The statement concluded that due to these undemocratic developments, Port Harcourt is no longer a suitable venue for the 2025 AGC. Holding the event there would imply an endorsement of constitutional violations and a disregard for the rule of law.
The NBA has taken a firm stance, declaring the appointment of a Sole Administrator in Rivers State unconstitutional. Therefore, in line with the unanimous position of the NEC and the broader membership, the 2025 AGC will be relocated to a state where constitutional democracy is upheld.
