“In Spirit of Unity”: Fmr-NBA Secretary Oduah Bows Out Of Presidential Race After Appeal Setback

*Criticizes NOEAC’s Decision

Joyce Oduah, the immediate past General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has decided not to pursue further appeals against her disqualification from the NBA presidential race.

This decision comes after the National Officers Elections Appeal Committee (NOEAC) upheld her disqualification by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA).

Oduah expressed her disappointment with the NOEAC’s decision, stating that it lacked due consideration of her detailed legal arguments and failed to demonstrate sound deductive reasoning, jurisprudential thinking, and superior argumentation. She pointed out that the committee’s decision relied on a provision that was non-existent during her tenure as Treasurer from 2012 to 2014, and that the issue regarding her seconder’s receipts could have been easily rectified.

Despite the setback, Oduah reaffirmed her commitment to the NBA and its principles. She stated, “After careful consideration and in the spirit of fostering unity and peace within our beloved NBA, I have decided not to appeal further. This decision, while not the end of my journey, is a testament to my commitment to the NBA and its principles.”

Oduah expressed her gratitude to her numerous supporters, including her campaign team, coordinators, and family members. She acknowledged their unwavering support and belief in her vision for a more inclusive and progressive NBA.

Looking ahead, Oduah remains determined to serve the NBA and advance the legal profession. She emphasized that this setback only fuels her passion to work towards the betterment of the association and foster inclusivity within the organization.

As an immediate past General Secretary of the NBA, Vice President West Africa of the Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU), Council Member of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA), and former Council Member of the International Bar Association (IBA), Joyce Oduah’s commitment to the legal profession and her dedication to serving the NBA remain steadfast.