NBA Presidential Candidates Assert Bar Independence at ECNBA Manifesto Presentation
Two of the three presidential candidates in the forthcoming Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) National Elections — Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb and Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN — on Wednesday attended the ECNBA Manifesto Presentation, an appearance widely regarded as a resolute defence of the Bar’s independence.
The event proceeded as scheduled despite reports that the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, had directed that the NBA elections be postponed. Their attendance was seen as a symbolic rejection of external interference in the Association’s democratic processes.
The third candidate, Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, was notably absent. His absence has sparked debate within the Bar, with some members interpreting it as tacit compliance with the AGF’s reported directive.
Organised by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA), the hybrid event drew a large audience. Akangbe and Badejo-Okusanya presented their manifestos, articulating their visions for the future of the Association and engaging directly with members of the Bar.
Observers described their participation as a bold affirmation of the NBA’s constitutional autonomy, underscoring that the Association’s democratic processes must remain under the exclusive control of its own institutions, free from political influence.
This development comes amid widespread reactions to reports that the AGF allegedly recommended both the postponement of the elections and the introduction of additional voting requirements.
By honouring the ECNBA’s invitation, Akangbe and Badejo-Okusanya sent a strong message: the NBA is an independent professional body governed solely by its Constitution, and its electoral process cannot be subjected to directives from political appointees or the Executive arm of government.
Many members of the Bar described the manifesto presentation as more than an electoral exercise. To them, it was a courageous demonstration that the independence of the legal profession is non-negotiable, and that no political office holder, regardless of status, should dictate the affairs of the Association.
The event also reinforced the resolve of stakeholders to ensure that the July 18, 2026 elections proceed strictly in line with the NBA Constitution and the timetable established by the ECNBA.
As the election approaches, the successful conduct of the manifesto presentation is being hailed as a significant step in preserving the independence of the Bar, strengthening confidence in its democratic institutions, and reaffirming the long-standing principle that the NBA must remain free from undue influence or interference by political appointees or any arm of the Executive.
