Press Statement
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), under the distinguished leadership of Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, has once again demonstrated an unwavering commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.
The decision to relocate the 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Enugu State is a courageous and principled response to the unconstitutional removal of a legitimately elected government in Rivers State and the imposition of a sole administrator, an act that fundamentally contradicts the democratic provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
This relocation is not merely a logistical adjustment or a procedural change but a powerful statement against the erosion of democratic values. The NBA’s stance, supported by Otu Oka-Iwu, Abuja, reflects an unflinching dedication to justice and fairness, instilling hope among Nigerians that the fight for democracy remains alive and encouraging all Nigerians to believe that there is indeed hope for the common man.
Under the leadership of Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the NBA has consistently taken decisive positions on critical national issues, reaffirming its role as a guardian of the law and defender of citizens’ rights.
Otu Oka-Iwu Abuja is particularly pleased that the conference will now hold in Enugu, the choice of Enugu State as the new venue for the AGC carries symbolic significance. Enugu, a city steeped in history and legal excellence, last hosted the NBA Annual Conference during the tenure of Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, as the NBA President. The return of this prestigious event to Enugu is a welcome development, affording the Enugu Bar, Otu Oka-Iwu, and Bar Associations a valuable opportunity to showcase their enduring commitment to democracy and the advancement of the legal profession.
His Excellency, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah ESQ, deserves commendation for his exemplary democratic leadership in accepting to host the conference despite its initial scheduling in Port Harcourt. As a distinguished lawyer, the governor embodies the leadership qualities that lawyers are renowned for, and his administration’s strides in governance and development further underscore his dedication to progress.
Indeed, he epitomizes the virtues of integrity, strategic governance, and respect for the rule of law, qualities that lawyers across Nigeria uphold. His administration’s progressive reforms and commitment to infrastructural and economic development have significantly strengthened Enugu’s judicial systems.
Since he assumed office, His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah ESQ has made significant strides in strengthening the legal and justice sector in Enugu State. His administration has facilitated and presented over 18 groundbreaking bills to the House of Assembly, out of which 15 have been passed into law. These legislative advancements have reinforced the state’s legal framework, ensuring that governance remains transparent, accountable, and responsive to contemporary challenges.
Hosting the NBA AGC in Enugu is not only a testament to the state’s readiness to uphold democratic values but also an opportunity to strengthen the bond between the legal profession and governance. The conference will undoubtedly benefit from the Governor’s visionary leadership, providing a platform for lawyers to engage in meaningful discourse and contribute to national development.
Beyond legislative reforms, His Excellency has also issued five executive orders that provide legal backing for various government policies and initiatives. These orders have enabled swift responses to emerging governance challenges, ensuring that Enugu State remains a model of legal efficiency and administrative effectiveness.
Notably, this shift offers an opportune moment for Enugu State to also host the Otu Oka-Iwu National Lawyers Conference, underscoring its role as a centre for legal excellence. The Governor’s leadership qualities, particularly his deep understanding of the legal profession’s significance in governance, make Enugu the ideal location for such a distinguished gathering.
There is no doubt that the NBA’s decision to relocate the AGC to Enugu State is a bold and commendable move that underscores NBA’s resolute commitment to democracy and a reminder that the legal profession remains a steadfast guardian of the rule of law
Chidiebere Nwabueze Udekwe ESQ
President
Otu oka-Iwu Abuja
