Farewell, NBA Heroes!
Mr. President and mint National Executive Committee members, Immediate Past President and National Executive Committee members, Past Presidents and National officers, Respected Branch Chairmen and Exco, Esteemed Elders and Silks, Distinguished Colleagues and Secretariat Staff, of the Nigerian Bar Association
As I hang up my cape as 3rd Vice President, I’m filled with immense gratitude, pride and appreciation
for the unwavering support and cooperation I received from each and every one of you. Your trust and confidence in me have been a constant source of inspiration, and I am honoured to have had the rare privilege to serve this great Association.
I must say, it’s been an incredible journey, and I’m not leaving without scars (lol, they’re all battle scars from fighting for justice!), medals and good friends and family. In all seriousness, I’ve learned so much from you all, and I’ll cherish the memories and experiences and friendships forever.
It is a badge of honour to bear the scars of fighting for justice, for we recognize that injustice to one is injustice to all. Throughout my tenure, I have tirelessly advocated for an inclusive Bar, ensuring that no branch or member is left behind. My efforts have been focused on achieving financial autonomy for the Bar, thereby eliminating the need to solicit funds from external sources, which compromises our independence and confidence to speak truth to power and defend the rights of Nigerians.
I have championed constitutional compliance, not to usurp the powers of elected officers, but to ensure that our actions align with the principles of our constitution. My mission has been to restore the eroded ethics of our noble profession and uphold the dignity of all members of the Bar.
Furthermore, I have vigorously opposed the egregious practices of indiscriminate arrests, detention, and punishment before conviction, which result in the unjustified dumping of accused persons in prolonged and unnecessary detention and delayed trials. This violates the fundamental principles of justice and human rights.
These efforts aim to build a stronger, united, and more impactful Bar, capable of effectively promoting justice and protecting the rights of all Nigerians, and upholding the rule of law. I urge the New Exco led by Maxi Afam Osigwe and distinguished and respected members of the NBA to join me in this quest for a better future for our profession and our country.
As I depart, I pray that the Almighty God blesses you all abundantly, granting you success, wisdom, and joy in all your endeavour. May your health be perfect, your practices flourish, and may your contributions to the legal profession continue to make a lasting impact.
As you all begin your journeys back home, I wish you safe travels and happy reunions with loved ones. May your trip be filled with joy, and may you return home refreshed and rejuvenated.
I remain committed to the Nigerian Bar Association and am willing and ready to serve again whenever duty calls, while cheering on its continued success and ascent to greater heights.
Thank you once more for the opportunity to serve. I’ll miss you all dearly, but I know that our paths will cross again soon.
Warm regards
Mandy Demechi-Asagba FICMC
Immediate Past 3rd Vice President,
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)