As someone who has attended NBA conferences for over 23 years, even before being called to the bar, I couldn’t help but notice the contradictions surrounding this year’s event in Enugu. Having started reporting on lawyers and judges in 1992, I was drawn into the profession by pioneers like Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, and Femi Falana. Chief Ayo Opadokun’s encouragement also played a significant role in my journey. He personally bought the JAMB form to study law in LASU for me.
This year, I deliberately avoided the conference due to the change of venue, which I felt was not done in good faith. The failure to refund the N300 million from Rivers State before and after the change was a major concern. Monitoring the conference remotely, I observed the continuation of contradictions, lax organization, and a transactional approach that undermined the event’s purpose.
The politicization of the conference to suit certain interests was evident, as was the preference for “wannabes” over seasoned professionals who have dedicated years to the profession. It’s not that younger colleagues specifically drawn from the YLF shouldn’t be represented; rather, it’s the misdirection of giving prominence to those with limited experience. The award given to one such individual for his “contribution to the legal profession” was a stark example of this misdirection.
A notable moment was the staged encounter between the Hon. Minister of Interiors and Dr. Oby Ezekwesili. The questioning, led by Seun and addressed to a visibly biased audience, seemed premeditated and targeted, aiming to expose and intimidate the Minister. However, he handled the situation admirably, relying on data and facts. The applause and standing ovation that followed thereafter were a testament to his composure and strategic delivery. Again, his performance in the Ministry of Interiors must have given him such approbation from what could be likened to a ” Daniel in Lions den” in Enugu.
The Minister’s performance was impressive, showcasing his ability to articulate his position and provide fact-based statistics. This experience highlights the need for a more altruistic and less transactional NBA. As we look forward to the 2026 conference, I hope we can learn from this experience and strive for a more inclusive and meaningful event.
Moving forward, having seen the direction of things, the Young Lawyers Forum (YLF) should extract a commitment from the NBA, particularly from contesting candidates, to involve them and give them prominence in NBA events. Additionally, the Women Forum of the Bar should demand greater involvement, not just as cheerleaders or appendage but as equal partners, to showcase their unique perspectives and contributions.
Sola Ajisafe, is a lawyer, journalist and farmer. He lives and practices law in Akure, Ondo State.
