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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has said it is appalled by the recent and ill-advised appointment of Abdulrasheed Maina, a man convicted for the theft of over N2 billion in pension funds, as the ‘Grand Patron of NBA Garki Branch’ by Anthony Bamidele Ojo, the Chairman of the branch.
According to the NBA, this decision not only tarnishes the legal profession’s reputation but also undermines the government’s efforts to fight corruption and disregards the NBA’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
”The purported appointment not only paints the legal profession and the NBA in a bad light but also makes a mockery of the government’s fight against corruption, as well as the Association’s motto of promoting the rule of law,” a statement by its President, Afam Osigwe, said on Friday.
Osigwe said the chairman’s action is not only a disservice to the legal profession but also an insult to the Nigerian public, who look to the Bar for leadership in the fight against corruption.
“When a branch of the NBA elevates a convicted criminal to a position of influence, it reflects poorly on the entire profession and the values it stands for. Corruption must not be allowed to thrive under the guise of legal integrity, and the NBA must remain steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that corrupt practices are neither condoned nor overlooked.”
In light of this “grave misstep,” the NBA has said it unequivocally disowns the appointment of Abdulrasheed Maina as ‘Grand Patron’ of the NBA Garki Branch. It directed the chairman of the branch, Anthony Bamidele Ojo, to immediately retract the appointment and cease any further comments or support for Mr Maina or any individual involved in ongoing litigation.
It added that disciplinary action will be taken against Mr Ojo for failing to adhere to the ethical standards expected of a leader within the NBA, stressing that it is a clear violation of the association’s core values, and the NBA will not hesitate to take the necessary steps to preserve the public’s confidence in the legal profession.
“Integrity, accountability, and respect for the judicial process are not negotiable. The NBA must be seen as a bulwark against corruption, not as a platform that fosters it.” the statement read.
Osigwe said the Nigerian Bar Association remains committed to ensuring that the legal profession continues to serve the public interest with integrity, and that this unfortunate episode must serve as a reminder that there is no tolerance for actions that compromise the values we stand for.
