NBA Moves Annual Conference From Port Harcourt To Enugu Over Rivers Emergency Rule

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has decided to move its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) from Port Harcourt to Enugu, citing concerns over “constitutional violations” in Rivers State.

The decision follows the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers by President Bola Tinubu, who suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state assembly.

In their place, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of the state.

The NBA strongly criticized this move, calling it unconstitutional and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement released Friday, the association said that although Port Harcourt was originally chosen to host the event, recent developments made it impossible to proceed as planned.

According to NBA, the current leadership in Rivers operates like a military dictatorship, ignoring the constitution, court rulings, and ongoing legal matters.

The association said it could not, in good conscience, hold its major event in a state being run this way.

“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,” the statement reads.

“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 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.

“Given these undemocratic developments, Port Harcourt can no longer be considered a justifiable venue for the 2025 AGC. To hold our flagship event in such circumstances would amount to a tacit endorsement of constitutional violations and subversion of the rule of law.

“The NBA has taken a principled position in accordance with the law: the appointment of a Sole Administrator in Rivers State is unconstitutional.”

As a result, the NBA announced that the 2025 conference will now take place in Enugu, a city known for its rich history and strong infrastructure.

The association believes the Coal City can provide everything needed for a successful event.

The NBA urged all members to support the new plan, saying the move is about standing by the rule of law and the values the association represents.

“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.”

The statement was signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe, General Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, and Emeka Obegolu, chairman of the conference planning committee.

KanyiDaily recalls that the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the subsequent suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.