The NBA’s decision to move its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu isn’t just about logistics; it’s a strong, calculated political statement. It underscores the association’s position as a watchdog of constitutional democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
The fact that they cited “command-style governance,” suspension of elected officials, and disregard for constitutional processes as reasons for the relocation shows how seriously the legal community is taking the situation in Rivers State. Even though Tinubu’s government formally declared a state of emergency, the NBA is flat-out rejecting its legitimacy, pointing to a lack of proper constitutional procedure, including that controversial voice vote instead of a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly.
And honestly, the optics of hosting a major legal conference in a state currently overseen by a retired military officer acting as sole administrator, while the Governor and lawmakers are suspended, would’ve sent a confusing — if not outright compromising — message about the NBA’s commitment to constitutional values.
Enugu, often referred to as the Coal City, has always had symbolic weight as a bastion of Eastern legal, political, and cultural history. Moving the AGC there serves as a kind of return to democratic ideals — plus, Enugu’s infrastructure and hospitality have hosted large events before, so it’s a solid fallback.
From a broader angle, this decision could stir further debate about federal overreach, the role of the legal community in governance, and the health of Nigeria’s democracy. And it’s bound to draw both applause and criticism depending on which side of the fence people stand on politically.
What’s your take on it? Do you think the NBA made the right call, or was this more symbolic than strategic?