The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), under the leadership of Mr. Afam Osigwe, SAN, has resolved to reprimand lawyers who publicly oppose or contradict the official statements of the NBA President, describing such actions as undermining the Association’s unity and authority.

This was contained in a statement released by the Association on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, following the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on May 15, 2025, in Ilorin, Kwara State.

According to the statement, one of the five key resolutions reached at the meeting was a clear directive against dissenting public comments by members contradicting the NBA President.

“NEC condemned the act of members publicly countering the official position of the NBA President, who speaks on behalf of the Association. It was suggested that such conduct be subject to disciplinary action moving forward,” the statement read.

The NEC meeting also saw strong reactions to other national and professional matters. Among the other major resolutions were:

  • Condemnation of Recurring Flight Cancellations: NEC decried the frequent and unexplained cancellation of flights in Nigeria without providing adequate alternatives for passengers, describing it as unacceptable and disruptive. The Council resolved that decisive actions will be taken moving forward.
  • Suspension of Port Harcourt Branch Chairman: The NEC condemned the suspension of the NBA Port Harcourt Branch Chairman, branding the action as unjustified and called for its immediate withdrawal. It commended the principled stance taken by other NBA branches in Rivers State in rejecting the suspension.
  • Protection of NBA Executives in Public Service: The Council expressed strong opposition to disciplinary actions being taken against public servants serving as NBA executives, insisting that such actions are a threat to the independence of the Bar and contrary to the values of the legal profession.
  • Criticism of JAMB’s Blanket Cancellation of Results: NEC also addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). While acknowledging technical hitches during the recent UTME exams, the Association condemned the blanket cancellation of results, asserting that only candidates proven to have committed malpractice should be penalised.

Additionally, the NEC commended NBA President Afam Osigwe, SAN, for his proactive leadership and bold stance in speaking truth to power and upholding the ideals of justice and fairness. The Executive Committee was also applauded for standing firm in the face of injustice.

Another resolution touched on operational improvements, particularly the distribution of NBA stamps. NEC resolved that official stamps be sent directly to branches for collection by members—except for branch Chairmen and Secretaries—to curb identity theft and ensure stamps are not misused by impostors or forgeries.

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