The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced the relocation of its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Enugu, the Coal City. This decision follows the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, which has disrupted preparations for the conference and raised significant constitutional concerns.
Initially, Port Harcourt was chosen as the host city for the prestigious event, generating widespread enthusiasm among NBA members. Registration figures soared as members eagerly anticipated the conference. However, the governance situation in Rivers State under a retired military officer acting as a Sole Administrator has created an environment deemed unsuitable for hosting such an important event. The Sole Administrator’s command-style approach has been criticized for undermining constitutional provisions, democratic institutions, and the rule of law.
In response to mounting concerns from NBA members, particularly those advocating for a change of venue, the NBA convened meetings with branch chairmen in Rivers State and held an emergency session of its National Executive Council (NEC) on March 27, 2025. The NEC unanimously agreed that proceeding with the AGC in Rivers State would amount to tacit endorsement of unconstitutional actions and subversion of democratic principles.
The NEC further reaffirmed that the state of emergency declared in Rivers State violates Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution. It noted that the suspension of elected officials and democratic institutions contravenes Sections 11 and 188 of the Constitution. The purported ratification by the National Assembly was deemed unconstitutional as it bypassed the two-thirds majority vote required for such actions. Even if proper procedures had been followed, the NEC emphasized that such a proclamation would still be unconstitutional.
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Given these developments, Port Harcourt can no longer be considered a viable venue for the 2025 AGC. The NBA has taken a principled stance, declaring that the appointment of a Sole Administrator in Rivers State is unconstitutional. Consequently, Enugu has been selected as the new host city, aligning with the NBA’s commitment to upholding constitutional democracy.
The association remains resolute in ensuring that its flagship event is held in a state where democratic principles are intact. Members are encouraged to prepare for what promises to be a successful conference in Enugu later this year.