Nigerian Bar Association Announces Change of Venue for 2025 Annual General Conference
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced that Enugu will host the 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) instead of Port Harcourt. This decision follows concerns over the unconstitutional governance of Rivers State by a Sole Administrator appointed on March 18, 2025.
Reasons for Relocation
The NBA cited several reasons for relocating the conference:
- Unconstitutional Governance: The appointment of a Sole Administrator in Rivers State disregards constitutional provisions, court decisions, and pending litigation.
- Suspension of Democratic Institutions: The state of emergency declared in Rivers State violates Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, while the suspension of elected officials and democratic institutions contravenes Sections 11 and 188.
- Constitutional Subversion: The purported ratification by the National Assembly via voice vote, rather than the required two-thirds majority, amounts to a grave constitutional subversion.
New Venue
The NBA has chosen Enugu as the new venue for the 2025 AGC:
- Enugu: The historic Coal City possesses the infrastructure and capacity to host a conference of the NBA’s scale and significance.
- Conference Dates: August 22-28, 2025
- Commitment to Success: The NBA is confident that the change of venue will not compromise its commitment to delivering a successful and impactful conference.
Leadership Statement
The NBA leadership has issued a statement calling on members and stakeholders to support the new venue:
“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.” – Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, President; Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, General Secretary; Emeka Obegolu, SAN, Chair, AGCPC.
The NBA’s decision to relocate the 2025 AGC to Enugu reflects its commitment to upholding constitutional democracy and the rule of law. The association is confident that the new venue will provide a suitable platform for a successful and impactful conference. With the support of its members and stakeholders, the NBA is poised to make this transition a resounding success.
