Enugu to Host NBA 2025 Conference as Rivers Emergency Rule Prompts Venue Change

Citing concerns over the recently imposed state of emergency and the appointment of a Sole Administrator in Rivers State, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced the relocation of its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC). Originally slated for Port Harcourt, the flagship event will now be held in Enugu. The NBA underscored the initial excitement surrounding Port Harcourt as the host, noting strong registration figures prior to the declaration of emergency rule.

However, the association articulated significant unease regarding the governance of Rivers State under the appointed Sole Administrator, a retired military officer. The NBA alleges a disregard for constitutional principles, court rulings, and ongoing legal proceedings, asserting that the administrator’s command-style approach has undermined democratic structures and processes within the state, effectively resembling military rule despite civilian appearance.

This situation spurred increasing demands from NBA members for a change of venue. Following deliberations, including a meeting with Rivers State NBA branch chairmen and an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) session, a decisive consensus emerged. The NEC concluded that proceeding with the AGC in a state they deem unconstitutionally governed would be untenable for the association.

The NBA’s NEC further elaborated on its legal position, stating that the state of emergency contravenes Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution. They also argued that the suspension of elected officials and democratic institutions violates Sections 11 and 188, and the National Assembly’s ratification via voice vote constituted a serious constitutional subversion. The NBA maintained that even proper procedure could not legitimize an unconstitutional act.
Ultimately, the NBA determined that the “undemocratic developments” in Rivers State rendered Port Harcourt an unsuitable location for the 2025 AGC.

Hosting the conference there, the association reasoned, would imply an endorsement of constitutional violations and the erosion of the rule of law. Consequently, grounded in its legal assessment of the Sole Administrator’s appointment as unconstitutional and reflecting the overwhelming sentiment of its NEC and membership, the NBA has resolved to move the AGC to Enugu, a state where constitutional democracy is upheld.