The Nigerian Bar Association has announced the relocation of its 2025 Annual General Conference, formerly scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt, Rivers State but will now be held in Enugu, due to the recent declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.
The association stated that while there was a widespread excitement over Port Harcourt being the host city for the 2024 Conference which was evident in the soaring registration figures, the presence of an appointed sole administrator who is a retired military officer operating with alleged command-style approach will no longer permit the Garden City to be retained as the host city.
This was contained in a statement jointly signed by the NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), the General Secretary, Mobolaji Ojibara and the AGCPC chair, Emeka Obegolu (SAN) late Thursday night.
The NBA noted that the sole administrator, though clad in civilian attire, his governing style is military in nature as his actions undermine democracy.
The statement read, “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.
”The statement added that this has prompted members to call for a change of venue, and the voices grew stronger over time.
