NBA President Announces National Officers Reconciliation As Panel Concludes Prof. Ndifon’s Investigation, Recommends LPDC Action

The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN, has announced the reconciliation of the national officers of the NBA following the disagreements that emerged after the last National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.

Maikyau revealed the reconciliation while leading NBA national officers to celebrate with Adegboyega Awomolo SAN in Abuja over the weekend.

“We have allowed ourselves to become ministers of reconciliation such that all the challenges and the differences we had within our Exco, have by the special grace of God today, been reconciled,” Maikyau stated.

The reconciliation occurred at a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting presided by Maikyau and attended by all national officers. The Exco resolved to set aside their differences and rededicate themselves to NBA’s objectives and serving its members.

The disagreements had emerged at the NBA’s last Annual General Meeting where some decisions were made without due process according to some officers. This resulted in claims of unconstitutional actions and calls for Maikyau’s resignation.

Maikyau expressed delight that the NBA national officers have resolved their differences amicably through dialogue and consultation. He stated that this demonstrates the maturity and commitment of the leadership to upholding the ideals of the legal profession.

However, after extensive discussions and mediation, the officers have agreed to work together in the interest of the association. Maikyau thanked the Body of Past Presidents of the NBA for their role in resolving the issues.

The NBA President reiterated that the leadership remains focused on pursuing their goals for the legal profession and will continue engaging with all stakeholders. He called on members nationwide to join hands in advancing legal practice, human rights, and the rule of law.

Maikyau expressed confidence that the reconciliation has strengthened the NBA and will enable its leadership to deliver on their mandate fully. He promised that the next NEC meeting slated for March 2023 will clarify any issues and cement the unity further.

Meanwhile, an NBA committee concluded investigations into sexual assault allegations against Prof. Cyril Ndifon, suspended Dean of the University of Calabar’s Law Faculty.

The panel, led by 1st Vice President Linda Rose Bala, recommended the NBA file a misconduct complaint against Ndifon before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee.

Maikyau commended the committee’s work and promised its report will be presented at the December NEC meeting. The recommendations will be implemented upon NEC approval, he added.

The successful reconciliation enables the NBA leadership to remain focused on promoting good governance, social justice and human rights.