The Rivers State Government has formally requested a refund of ₦300 million from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), following the association’s decision to shift its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu.
The demand was made in a statement issued on Monday by the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), through his spokesperson, Hector Igbikiowubo. The government expressed dismay over the NBA’s justification for relocating the event, describing the reasons as both misleading and unfair.
Although the state acknowledged that the NBA has the freedom to choose any location for its events, it questioned why no steps had been taken to return the funds it had paid as part of the original hosting agreement. The statement urged the association to act in good faith and return the money if it truly stands on the principles it claims to uphold.
The NBA announced on April 10, 2025, that it would be relocating the conference to Enugu, citing alleged threats to democratic governance in Rivers State. The association referenced recent political actions under the current administration, claiming they posed a threat to the rule of law.
In its response, the Rivers State Government defended the recent political decisions, including the state of emergency and the appointment of a Sole Administrator, asserting that they were lawful and necessary measures to stabilize the region. The statement emphasized that President Bola Tinubu acted within the powers granted to him by the Constitution.
Vice Admiral Ibas noted that his role is transitional and aimed at restoring normal democratic processes in the state. He also referenced a Supreme Court ruling—Suit No. SC/CV/1176/2024—which upheld decisions taken during this interim period, including the nullification of certain local government elections that breached the Electoral Act.
The state government accused the NBA of politicizing the matter and called on the association to approach the issue with more objectivity and a willingness to contribute positively to the ongoing efforts to restore full democratic governance.
“Rivers State is undergoing a critical transitional phase,” the statement concluded. “We encourage the NBA and other stakeholders to support the efforts being made to achieve peace, order, and progress.”
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