The Rivers State Government has expressed concerns over the Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) decision to boycott the state over its current governance structure, while failing to refund N300 million paid for hosting rights of the 2025 conference.
The Government expressed disappointment over the NBA decision to relocate its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu, saying it believes the reasons cited by the NBA, particularly the insinuation that the Sole Administrator’s actions have undermined democracy and the rule of law, are misleading and unbecoming.
According to the SSA Media to the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral(rtd), Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, Hector Igbikiowubo, the NBA’s stance appears inconsistent, given that they have already accepted payment for the conference without delivering on their commitment.
He said the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State was a necessary response to a breakdown of public order and democratic processes.
He argued that President Bola Tinubu acted in the best interest of the state to restore stability, and the Sole Administrator’s mandate is clear: to oversee a transitional period ensuring the return of full democratic governance.
He referenced a landmark judgment of the Supreme Court that validated key decisions made during the current administration, stressing that the Sole Administrator has consistently reaffirmed his commitment to restoring democratic institutions, upholding constitutional rights, and respecting judicial pronouncements.
He said: “While we respect the NBA’s right to choose its conference venues, we find it curious that the association—despite its “principled position”— didn’t address the refund of the N300 million already paid by the Rivers State Government for the hosting rights of the 2025 conference. If the NBA truly stands on principle, it should demonstrate the same integrity by promptly returning these funds rather than benefiting from a state it now publicly discredits.”
He noted that the government believes the NBA should demonstrate integrity by promptly returning the funds rather than benefiting from a state they now publicly discredit.
He urged the NBA to engage constructively with the state, offering solutions instead of amplifying divisive narratives.
He added that as a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s democracy, the NBA is expected to support the state’s democratic journey.
He added: “The Sole Administrator remains focused on stabilizing the state and facilitating a smooth return to full constitutional governance. The government has called on the NBA and other well-meaning Nigerians to support this process in the interest of peace and progress.”
