*Questions NBA President’s Legacy and Impact as Tenure Nears End

Emmanuel Zion Ewere, a legal practitioner, has penned an open letter to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Y.C. Maikyau SAN, in response to the president’s recent message titled “OUR CALL ON GOVERNMENT AND APPEAL TO THE PEOPLE OF NIGERIA ON THE PLANNED NATIONWIDE PROTEST.” Ewere’s letter has ignited a debate among lawyers regarding the role of the NBA and its president in addressing national issues and the planned protests.

In his letter, Ewere acknowledges the concerns raised by Maikyau but emphasizes the importance of NBA members exercising their professional judgment and autonomy. He argues that the NBA president’s message appears to interfere with the right of lawyers to independently decide on matters of national importance.

Read his full open letter below:

OPEN LETTER TO THE NBA PRESIDENT Y.C MAIKYAU SAN,

By Emmanuel Zion Ewere.
Dear Y.C Maikyau SAN,

Thank you for your message “OUR CALL ON GOVERNMENT AND APPEAL TO THE PEOPLE OF NIGERIA ON THE PLANNED NATIONWIDE PROTEST” and for outlining the concerns regarding the state of our nation and the planned nationwide protest. I acknowledge the efforts and intentions behind your communication. However, as a legal practitioner, I am compelled to address several critical points related to your letter and its implications.

First and foremost, it is essential to recognize that as members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), we hold the responsibility to exercise our professional judgment and autonomy. Your letter, unfortunately, appears to interfere with my right to independently decide on matters of national importance. It is crucial for each member of the bar to form their own opinions and make decisions based on their understanding of the issues at hand.

Moreover, the role of the NBA president is not only to represent the interests of the Bar but also to serve as a steadfast voice to power, especially when it comes to the Executive arm of government. This position demands an unwavering commitment to holding the government accountable and upholding the rule of law. It is incumbent upon the NBA president to challenge policies and actions that may not align with the principles of justice, equity, and the welfare of the people.

Your tenure as NBA president is approaching its end, and it is evident that there has been a lack of substantial achievements and a lasting legacy for the Bar. It is imperative for the leadership of the NBA to demonstrate courage and conviction in addressing the pressing issues faced by our nation. While your letter highlights significant concerns, it is also essential to reflect on whether these efforts have translated into tangible actions and outcomes. But the reality is that my letter is directly speaking the truth to you, and I hope you can do the same to people in power and authority.

In speaking truth to authority, I urge you to consider the following points:

Members of the NBA should be allowed to form their own opinions and take actions based on their professional judgment. External pressure or influence undermines the autonomy and integrity of the legal profession.

For accountability and transparency, The NBA should consistently hold the government accountable for its actions as the voice of the common is almost lost in our beloved country. This includes demanding transparency in governance, advocating for the protection of human rights, especially the right to peaceful assembly and association, and ensuring that policies are in the best interest of the people.

While it is essential to voice concerns, it is equally important to engage constructively with the government. This involves offering practical solutions, participating in meaningful dialogue, and collaborating on initiatives that address the root causes of our national challenges. All through your administration we have not seen any move you made to address the above concerns and actions undermining the rule of law and the alleged corruption of the judiciary.

As your tenure comes to an end, search your heart and tell yourself the truth. What impact and legacy have you created? It is an opportune moment to reflect on the legacy you leave behind. A lasting legacy is built on significant achievements, impactful reforms, and a commitment to justice and the rule of law. It is crucial to ensure that future NBA leaders continue to build on this foundation.

While I appreciate your efforts to address the critical issues facing our nation, it is essential to recognize and respect the autonomy and independent decision-making of NBA members. As we move forward, let us strive to uphold the principles of justice, transparency, and accountability. It is only through collective and steadfast efforts that we can bring about meaningful change and ensure a prosperous future for our country.

Best regards,
By Emmanuel Zion Ewere.