The Nigeria Bar Association (aka NBA) which is the largest Bar in Africa elects its officials biannually. The last election which produced Y.C Maikyau SAN, OON as president of the NBA was held in July 2022, and the body of lawyers is earnestly approaching its next elections coming up in 2024.
The excitement, razzmatazz and tension characteristic of the preparatory phase of the elections are already taking center stage, as aspirants for different positions have kickstarted subtle campaign moves evident in their visits, courtesy calls, felicitations, public statements, participation in public programs, etc.
Apart from the fact that the NBA election is substantially transparent, if not the most in Nigeria, it is equally stress-free. It is stress-free because it is done online, and lawyers do not have to leave the comfort of their homes. The voting lawyers are also able to monitor the elections real time as the votes trickle in. So, there is no need to wait for an official announcement, one can see how the votes are coming in from the very minute it commences.
This style owes its roots to the Augustine Alegeh, SAN, CON’s led administration (2014-2016). The administration had introduced universal suffrage to all lawyers using online platform, as opposed to the delegate system previously practiced.
The NBA election is important to Nigeria as a country, because, not only does it set a standard for elections, it produces leaders of the Bar whose responsibility is to be a watchdog on the government of the day.
To this end, Primlegal will keep you posted on the intrigues, entertainment and news bordering on the election buildup to its conclusion. So, walk with us.
Well, it’s wonderful move by my learned friend. I salute your courage and I’m solely behind this good initiative.