*Says NBA Election Appeal Committee Gives Candidate Short Notice For Hearing, Refuses Adjournment

In a press release issued on August 13th, 2024, Tobenna Erojikwe, a candidate in the recently concluded Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) national officers elections, raised concerns about the conduct and transparency of the electoral process.

Mr. Erojikwe revealed that on July 22nd, he had requested an audit of the July 20th NBA elections in line with the provisions of the NBA Constitution. However, the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA) refused this request on July 26th, contrary to the constitutional requirements.

Dissatisfied with the ECNBA’s response, Mr. Erojikwe filed a petition with the NBA National Officers Elections Appeal Committee on July 31st, challenging the election results. He further submitted subpoenas to compel the production of relevant election materials and documents.

However, Mr. Erojikwe expressed misgivings about the Appeal Committee process, citing extremely short notice for hearings, refusal to accept evidence, and jurisdictional issues with the committee’s composition. He also questioned the ECNBA conducting its own audit after refusing an independent one as required by the constitution.

The NBA Constitution mandates openness and transparency in the electoral process, including providing explanations for decisions, access to critical information and documents, disclosure of deficiencies, and making the basis of each decision freely available.

PRESS RELEASE (130824) Tobenna

Mr. Erojikwe affirmed his commitment to holding the ECNBA accountable and ensuring it abides by these constitutional provisions. The controversy has raised questions about the integrity of the NBA electoral process among many legal practitioners.