The Rivers State Government has asked the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to return ₦300 million earlier paid for the hosting rights of its 2025 Annual General Conference, following the NBA’s decision to move the event from Port Harcourt to Enugu.
The request was made public on Monday through a statement issued by the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), via his media aide, Hector Igbikiowubo.
The government expressed disappointment with the reasons given by the NBA for the change in venue, describing them as inaccurate and unfair.
Although the government acknowledged the NBA’s authority to determine where its conference should be held, it questioned why there was no mention of a refund despite the significant funds already committed by the state.
The statement stressed that if the NBA truly upholds the principles of fairness and accountability, it should refund the ₦300 million without delay.
The NBA had, on April 10, 2025, announced the relocation of its conference, citing concerns over political developments in Rivers State.
The association argued that decisions made under the leadership of the Sole Administrator undermined democratic governance and the rule of law.
Responding to this, the Rivers State Government defended the imposition of emergency rule and the appointment of a Sole Administrator, stating that both actions were constitutionally sound and necessary to restore order.
It pointed out that President Bola Tinubu acted within his legal powers when he made the decision.
Ibas explained that his appointment is meant to serve as a temporary measure to guide the state back to democratic stability. He referenced a Supreme Court judgment—Suit No. SC/CV/1176/2024—which, according to him, validated critical actions taken under the current administration, including the annulment of local government elections that violated the Electoral Act.
The government accused the NBA of politicizing a complex constitutional issue and urged the association to engage constructively rather than escalate tensions.
“Rivers State is currently in a crucial transition aimed at preserving democratic values,” the statement read. “We call on the NBA and other relevant bodies to support this process in the interest of peace and development.”