KEY POINTS
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Rivers State demands a refund of N300m from NBA after conference relocation.
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Ibas criticizes the NBA’s reasons for relocating, calling them misleading.
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Rivers State calls for constructive engagement, not divisive narratives.
The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), replied to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) regarding its decision to relocate its Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu.
Ibas called the NBA’s reason for the move misleading and uncharitable. He issued a statement on Monday, through his media aide Hector Igbikiowubo, addressing the issue.
Ibas acknowledged the NBA’s right to choose the venue but pointed out that the association had not addressed the refund of the N300 million paid by the Rivers State Government for the hosting rights of the conference.
He stated, “If the NBA truly stands on principle, it should demonstrate the same integrity by promptly returning these funds.”
NBA’s reasons criticized for undermining democracy
According to Punch, the Rivers State Government responded to the NBA’s April 10, 2025 announcement that it was relocating the conference to Enugu.
The statement criticized the reasons cited, particularly the NBA’s suggestion that the Sole Administrator’s actions undermined democracy and the rule of law. Ibas described this as misleading and unbecoming of an association that upholds justice and fairness.
Ibas emphasized that the declaration of a state of emergency was a necessary step to restore public order. He argued that Bola Tinubu, exercising his constitutional authority, acted in the best interest of the state to bring stability.
Ibas calls for constructive engagement from NBA
Ibas also referred the NBA to a Supreme Court ruling that validated key decisions made during the state of emergency.
He urged the NBA to avoid sensationalizing the situation and to engage constructively. Ibas clearly emphasized that the Sole Administrator remains focused on stabilizing the state and facilitating a return to full democratic governance.
