The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced the relocation of its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Enugu, citing the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
In a statement jointly signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), General Secretary Mobolaji Ojibara, and AGCPC Chairman Emeka Obegolu (SAN), the association explained that while anticipation for Port Harcourt as the original host city had resulted in high registration numbers, recent political developments rendered it unsuitable to host the conference.
“Prior to the declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, enthusiasm for the conference in Port Harcourt was evident in the registration surge,” the statement read. “However, the abrupt shift in governance—marked by the appointment of a retired military officer as Sole Administrator—has disrupted preparations and raised significant concerns.”
The NBA expressed concern over what it described as an authoritarian style of governance now prevailing in Rivers State. “Though dressed in civilian clothes, the Sole Administrator governs with a military-style approach that disregards constitutional provisions, judicial authority, and democratic norms,” the association stated.
This governance style, it added, has triggered widespread calls within the legal community for a change in venue. After consultations with NBA branch leaders in Rivers State and an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on March 27, 2025, a unanimous decision was reached to move the conference.
The NBA strongly criticized the federal government’s actions, asserting that the declaration of emergency and suspension of elected officials in Rivers State violated Sections 305, 11, and 188 of the 1999 Constitution. The association also condemned the National Assembly’s purported ratification of the emergency rule, which it claimed failed to meet constitutional requirements.
“To proceed with the AGC in Port Harcourt under such unconstitutional circumstances would amount to an endorsement of democratic subversion and a breach of our core principles,” the statement emphasized.
In light of this, the NBA confirmed that Enugu, the Coal City, will now host the 2025 Annual General Conference. The city, they noted, offers the infrastructure and capability to deliver a successful and impactful event.
“We are confident that this change will not compromise the quality of the conference. Instead, it reflects our steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law and constitutional democracy,” the NBA concluded.