Rivers Government Blasts NBA Over Port Harcourt Conference Relocation, Demands ₦300m Refund
Port Harcourt | April 15, 2025 — IDNN Political Desk
The Rivers State Government has strongly rebuked the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) over its decision to relocate the 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu, describing the association’s justifications as “misleading, uncharitable, and unbecoming.”
In a sharp rebuttal issued by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), the state’s Sole Administrator, through his media aide Hector Igbikiowubo, the government challenged the NBA’s stance and demanded a refund of the ₦300 million already paid for hosting rights.
NBA’s Reasons “Lack Integrity and Transparency” — Rivers Govt
The government emphasized that while the NBA has the right to select its venue, the association’s refusal to address the refund of taxpayer funds contradicts its claim of standing on principle.
“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,” the statement read.
On Rule of Law: “NBA Is Oversimplifying a Constitutional Process”
Addressing the NBA’s claim that the Sole Administrator’s tenure undermines democracy and the rule of law, the statement countered:
“The NBA’s statement overlooks the constitutional basis for the current administration in Rivers State. The declaration of a state of emergency was a necessary response to a breakdown of public order.”
Ibas defended his administration’s legitimacy, stating that President Bola Tinubu acted within constitutional powers to stabilize Rivers State. He also cited a recent Supreme Court ruling (SC/CV/1176/2024) affirming that any local government election conducted in violation of the Electoral Act is null and void.
NBA Accused of Politicizing Legal Complexities
The Sole Administrator further criticized the NBA for what he termed a reduction of a complex constitutional transition to “political sensationalism.”
“The NBA, as a body of legal minds, should know better than to trivialize constitutional matters. Constructive engagement, not conflict, is what Rivers needs right now.”
Call for Unity and Support in Challenging Times
The Rivers Government urged the NBA and other democratic institutions to focus on unity and national healing:
“Rivers State is navigating a tough but necessary phase in its democratic development. The NBA should offer guidance, not deepen divides.”
Ibas reaffirmed his commitment to facilitating a smooth return to full democratic governance and encouraged the legal community to support the process for the sake of peace, stability, and progress.
IDNN ANALYSIS
This development underscores ongoing political and constitutional tensions in Rivers State. While the NBA’s relocation decision signals a clear disapproval of current governance in the state, the financial and legal implications are now taking center stage. Whether this back-and-forth triggers deeper investigations or settlements remains to be seen.
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