NBA Confirms Participation as Observers in Rivers State LG Elections

The Nigerian Bar Association pledges full participation in Rivers State local government elections, emphasizing constitutional responsibility

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has confirmed that its members will fully participate as observers in the October 5th, 2024, local government elections in Rivers State. NBA observers in Rivers LG elections have expressed confidence in their role, stating there is no legal barrier preventing their involvement in the electoral process.

This position was articulated in a communique signed by the chairmen of all eight NBA branches in Rivers State. The communique was presented to the media on Friday at the NBA Building in Port Harcourt by Cordelia U. Eke, Chairperson of the Port Harcourt Branch. Eke emphasized that statutory bodies, including the NBA, have a constitutional duty to perform their roles, which cannot be obstructed by external forces.

NBA observers in Rivers LG elections will play a vital part in ensuring the smooth conduct of the elections. Eke, in a statement issued by the NBA Media Team, highlighted that local government elections are an essential element of Nigeria’s democratic process as outlined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended). She pointed out that Rivers State’s upcoming election is no exception, as it is legally sanctioned.

In her statement, Eke acknowledged the various court rulings surrounding the Rivers State local government elections, some of which have sparked debate. These judgments, often shared widely on social media, come from courts of coordinate jurisdiction, leading to diverse interpretations. However, Eke stressed that the NBA would not engage in rehashing those issues but instead focus on the legal framework established by the Constitution, which is the supreme law governing the country.

NBA observers in Rivers LG elections are committed to ensuring the integrity of the process, as any law or judgment inconsistent with the Constitution holds no legal standing. The communique further emphasized that security agencies have the constitutional duty to maintain law and order, which is critical to upholding Nigeria’s democratic values.

The NBA urged all registered voters in Rivers State to exercise their right to vote peacefully and lawfully on Election Day. Eke reiterated the importance of citizens participating in the democratic process while remaining peaceful and law-abiding throughout the election.

The communique was also signed by several NBA branch chairmen, including Simple Dioha (Isiokpo Branch), Dr. Hilda Desmond-Liekaire (Ahoada Branch), Abiye A. Abe (Degema Branch), Dr. N.A. Dusorn (Bori Branch), Dr. Celestine Nwankwo (Okehi Branch), Tamunosiki A. Roberts (Okrika Branch), and Ekeledinichukwu Ordu (Omoku Branch). Together, they reaffirmed the NBA’s role in supporting a fair and democratic election process in Rivers State.