With the Nigerian Bar Association’s national election just days away, NBA President Afam Osigwe has denied allegations of attempting to influence the outcome, insisting the electoral process remains independent and transparent.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Osigwe dismissed claims that he was backing a preferred candidate, describing the allegations as politically motivated and lacking evidence. He stressed that the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association conducts the election independently and does not take directives from him.
His remarks come amid growing controversy over the July 18 election, with some presidential candidates and stakeholders questioning the credibility of the process, calling for a postponement, demanding National Identification Number verification for voters, and accusing the NBA leadership of trying to manipulate the poll.
Osigwe maintained that the Electoral Committee is the only body constitutionally empowered to conduct the election and noted that previous allegations of election rigging had never been substantiated in court.
To further demonstrate his neutrality, the NBA President announced that he would abstain from voting, despite being constitutionally entitled to cast a ballot.
He also criticised the Incorporated Trustees of Egbe Amofin O’odua, accusing the group of attempting to impose a sole presidential candidate. According to him, the NBA Constitution zones the office to the Western Region, which includes the six South-West states as well as Edo and Delta states.
Osigwe added that the association had invited the Department of State Services, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, and foreign technical experts to monitor and assess the electronic voting system.
His comments come after the Court of Appeal cleared the way for the election, affirming that any resolution of the dispute must be based on the agreement of all parties.
