The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced a change of venue for its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC), moving the event from Port Harcourt to Enugu. The decision follows what the association described as a collapse of democratic order and unconstitutional governance in Rivers State.
In a statement released late Thursday, NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), General Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, and AGC Planning Committee Chair Emeka Obegolu (SAN) said the move was prompted by recent political developments that threaten the rule of law.
“Before the federal government declared a state of emergency on March 18, registration for the conference had surged,” the NBA noted. “However, the momentum was abruptly halted with the appointment of a Sole Administrator—a retired military officer—to govern Rivers State.”
The NBA condemned the administrator’s “command-style” rule as a blatant disregard for constitutional principles. “His actions have weakened democratic institutions and trampled on the rule of law,” the association stated.
After consulting with local NBA branches and holding an emergency NEC meeting on March 27, the association unanimously decided to relocate the conference. It also denounced the National Assembly’s endorsement of the administrator’s appointment via a voice vote, calling it a serious breach of constitutional procedure.
“To host our flagship event in such an environment would be seen as endorsing these violations,” the statement added.
The NBA confirmed that the 2025 AGC will now take place in Enugu, praising the city’s infrastructure and readiness to host a conference of such magnitude. Members were assured that preparations for a successful event are already in full swing.
