Minutes of the National Executive Committee (Nec

MINUTES OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (NEC) MEETING OF THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION HELD ON THE 28TH DAY OF MARCH, 2019 AT THE AUDITORIUM, NBA NATIONAL SECRETARIAT, ABUJA. 1.0 IN ATTENDANCE: A. NATIONAL OFFICERS 1.) PAUL USORO, SAN - PRESIDENT 2.) JONATHAN GUNU TAIDI - GENERAL SECRETARY 3.) STANLEY CHIDOZIE IMO - 1ST VICE PRESIDENT 4.) DR. FOLUKE DADA - 2ND VICE PRESIDENT 5.) THEOPHILUS TERHILE IGBA - 3RD VICE PRESIDENT 6.) BANKE OLAGBEGI-OLOBA - TREASURER 7.) NNAMDI INNOCENT EZE - LEGAL ADVISER 8.) JOSHUA ENEMALI USMAN - WELFARE OFFICER 9.) ELIAS EMEKA ANOSIKE - FINANCIAL SECRETARY 10.) OLUKUNLE EDUN - PUBLICITY SECRETARY 11.) EWENODE WILLIAM EWENODE - 1ST ASST. SECRETARY 12.) CHINYERE OBASI - 2ND ASST. SECRETARY 13.) IRENE INIOBONG PEPPLE - ASST. FIN. SECRETARY 14.) AKOREDE HABEEB LAWAL - ASST. PUB. SECRETARY

B. PAST PRESIDENTS 1. CHIEF T.J. OKPOKO ONOMIGBO, SAN 2. O.C.J. OKOCHA, SAN 3. AUGUSTINE OYAREKHUA ALEGEH, SAN

C. PAST GENERAL SECRETARIES 1. HON. OBAFEMI ADEWALE 2. PHILIP NDUBUISI UMEH 3. HON. NIMI WALSON –JACK 4. AFAM OSIGWE

D. CHAIRMEN AND SECRETARIES OF SECTIONS 1. SENI ADIO, SAN 2. BUNMI IBRAHEEM 3. ADEOYE ADEFULU

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E. NEC MEMBERS BRANCHES 1. MFON ETUKUDO CHAIRMAN EKET BRANCH 2. PETER ME AKPAN SECRETARY EKET BRANCH 3. AKPADIAHA S. EBITU NEC REP EKET BRANCH 4. OBONG MATTEW AKPAN CHAIRMAN IKOT-EKPENE BRANCH 5. VICTOR E. PETER SECRETARY IKOT-EKPENE BRANCH 6. ENO –OBONG BASSEY AKPAN CHAIRMAN UYO BRANCH 7. EMEMBONG NICHOLAS UDOH SECRETARY UYO BRANCH 8. ANIETIE SUNDAY INYANG NEC REP UYO BRANCH 9. EKUNG BASSEY OKON NEC REP ORON BRANCH 10. CLEMENT BURUBOYEFE CHAIRMAN YENAGOA BRANCH 11. DERIE ERITE ERIC NEC REP YENAGOA BRANCH 12. DISE SHEILA OGBISE CHAIRMAN SAGBAMA BRANCH 13. NELSON PARABOMA SECRETARY SAGBAMA BRANCH 14. R.M. WHYTE NEC REP SAGBAMA BRANCH 15. GODSON NYEMA OWHOJI CHAIRMAN ISIOKPO BRANCH 16. KENNETH CHIKODINAKA IGWE SECRETARY ISIOKPO BRANCH 17. PROMISE IWEZOR NEC REP ISIOKPO BRANCH 18. SYLVESTER ADAKA CHAIRMAN PORTHARCOURT BRANCH 19. TONYE SIPOTO PEPPLE SECRETARY PORTHARCOURT BRANCH 20. PRINCE OBINICHI NYEKWERE NEC REP PORTHARCOURT BRANCH 21. GOLDEN LESOR AWI CHAIRMAN BORI BRANCH 22. LEDUM D. FINOR PUENE SECRETARY BORI BRANCH 23. LEWURA L. B. NWIKANA NEC REP BORI BRANCH 24. SOMIEARI PEPPLE EUCHARIA SOTONYE CHAIRMAN DEGEMA BRANCH 25. VICTOR VINCENT AMACHREE SECRETARY DEGEMA BRANCH 26. SIR IBIM SIMEON DOKUBO NEC REP DEGEMA BRANCH 27. GOLDEN O. TAMUNO CHAIRMAN OKRIKA BRANCH 28. KALADA D.S NONJU SECRETARY OKRIKA BRANCH 29. CHIKODI GIDEON S. ELENDU SECRETARY OMOKU BRANCH 30. J.D. OBULO NEC REP OMOKU BRANCH 31. DR. FELIX C. AMADI CHAIRMAN OKEHI BRANCH 32. DR. NWANKWO CELESTINE NWAOKOMA SECRETARY OKEHI BRANCH 33. FRIDAY NWANKWO NEC REP OKEHI BRANCH 34. E. OSI OKOJIE CHAIRMAN AGBOR BRANCH 35. IHATOR HAYES M. SECRETARY AGBOR BRANCH 36. AUGUSTINE O. BIENOSE NEC REP AGBOR BRANCH 37. F.T. ERULIEDE CHAIRMAN ASABA BRANCH 38. DR. NEWMAN U. RICHARDS SECRETARY ASABA BRANCH 39. C. F. EBU NEC REP ASABA BRANCH 40. V.O ISIBOR CHAIRMAN OGWASHI-UKU BRANCH 41. JUDE OBIDI SECRETARY OGWASHI-UKU BRANCH 42. A.C OLUIJI NEC REP OGWASHI-UKU BRANCH 43. P.B.A ADEMI AKPETO CHAIRMAN SAPELE BRANCH 44. I.C.E OKUGBO NEC REP SAPELE BRANCH 45. JOEL AKPESIRI OPETE CHAIRMAN UGHELLI BRANCH 46. SCOTT EROMONSELE AYO-OKHIRIA SECRETARY UGHELLI BRANCH 2 | P a g e

47. ALEX AMUSI NEC REP UGHELLI BANCH 48. MICHEAL A. ASUGO CHAIRMAN WARRI BRANCH 49. JOHN E. ARUOTURE SECRETARY WARRI BRANCH 50. GODWIN O.K. EBOWE NEC REP WARRI BRANCH 51. DR. CHINEDU JUSTIN EFE SECRETARY OLEH BRANCH 52. NELSON O.ENUMAH NEC REP OLEH BRANCH 53. ASABORO BENEDICT ONOKOWHOMO CHAIRMAN UDU BRANCH 54. O.O. ERHURHU SECRETARY UDU BRANCH 55. AYO ASALA NEC REP UDU BRANCH 56. DON O. EGHO CHAIRMAN EFFURUN BRANCH 57. JONATHAN EKPERUSI SECRETARY EFFURUN BRANCH 58. MOKIDI SIMON KASIMU CHAIRMAN AUCHI BRANCH 59. NOBILE G.O. OKHIDEMEH SECREATRY AUCHI BRANCH 60. EJERE OHIJAGBON DENNIS NEC REP AUCHI BRANCH 61. PRINCE COLLINS OGIEGBAEN CHAIRMAN BENIN BRANCH 62. PIUS I. OIWOH SECRETARY BENIN BRANCH 63. EDE ASENOGUAN NEC REP BENIN BRANCH 64. OSEHON IREHOVBUDE CHAIRMAN EKPOMA BRANCH 65. EHIMEN S. ODAMA ODAMA NEC REP EKPOMA BRANCH 66. OLORUNMOLA KOLADE SECRETARY IGARRA BRANCH 67. P.E AYEWOH ODIASE CHAIRMAN UROMI BRANCH 68. C.O. EKUAZE SECRETARY UROMI BRANCH 69. OJIE E. INEGBEBOH NEC REP UROMI BRANCH 70. HON.DR. EMMANUEL EGBE IDAKA CHAIRMAN CALABAR BRANCH 71. NSIKAK IKPEME SECRETARY CALABAR BRANCH 72. DAN EDET NEC REP CALABAR BRANCH 73. DANIEL KULO CHAIRMAN OGOJA BRANCH 74. OBIEM IKPE PHILIP SECRETARY OGOJA BRANCH 75. RICHARD O.S. OGBECHE NEC REP OGOJA BRANCH 76. OJONG N. AGBOR CHAIRMAN IKOM BRANCH 77. TONNIE BASSEY ISUWA SECRETARY IKOM BRANCH 78. NWOKE CHINEDU CHAIRMAN ISIALA-NGWA BRANCH 79. OZURUMBA BEATRICE SECRETARY ISIALA-NGWA BRANCH 80. DAVE OKWUN KALU CHAIRMAN OHAFIA BRANCH 81. OKORIE IFEKWE KALU SECRETARY OHAFIA BRANCH 82. UME MADUKA NEC REP OHAFIA BRANCH 83. NNAMDI ELUWA CHAIRMAN UMUAHIA BRANCH 84. ANYA ISAAC SECRETARY UMUAHIA BRANCH 85. CHIMAROKE O. EJIE CHAIRMAN UKWA BRANCH 86. ENYIOKO O. CHIEMELA SECRETARY UKWA BRANCH 87. MONEKE GABRIEL UDOKA CHAIRMAN AWKA BRANCH 88. DR. C. J. UBANYIONWU CHAIRMAN AGUATA BRANCH 89. CHUKWUANUGO OFFOR SECRETARY AGUATA BRANCH 90. CLIFFORD ILOEGBUNE OKOYE NEC REP AGUATA BRANCH 91. P.A. OSEME CHAIRMAN IDEMILI BRANCH 92. CHIDI B. NNAJI SECRETARY IDEMILI BRANCH 93. UGWUANYI PASCHAL CHUKWUEMEKA CHAIRMAN NNEWI BRANCH

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94. C. M. OBIJAGWAM CHAIRMAN IHIALA BRANCH 95. IHEDIGBO VITALIS CHUKWUNALU SECRETARY IHIALA BRANCH 96. OZOEMENA BENJAMIN ERINNE CHAIRMAN ONITSHA BRANCH 97. OBINNA CALLISTUS EZEIFE SECRETARY ONITSHA BRANCH 98. OKONGWU JIDEOFOR CHAIRMAN ANAOCHA BRANCH 99. OKOLI UGOCHUKWU SECRETARY ANAOCHA BRANCH 100. OLUCHUKWU L. UDEMEZUE SECRETARY OTUOCHA BRANCH 101. OGBONNAYA OKORIE SECRETARY ABAKALIKI BRANCH 102. STANLEY OKOCHE NKAA CHAIRMAN AFIKPO BRANCH 103. WILFRED OKO IBE SECRETARY AFIKPO BRANCH 104. CHUKWUEMEKA UWA CHAIRMAN ONUEKE BRANCH 105. U.C. IGBA SECRETARY ONUEKE BRANCH 106. SEN. IGWE NWAGU PAULINUS NEC REP ONUEKE BRANCH 107. DAMIAN O. NOSIKE CHAIRMAN OWERRI BRANCH 108. JUSTIN S.C. OSUEBI SECRETARY OWERRI BRANCH 109. CHIEF TONY O. EZEBUIRO CHAIRMAN MBAISE BRANCH 110. CHIEF B.N. IZUWA SECRETARY MBAISE BRANCH 111. OKWUDIRI OBIGWE CHAIRMAN OKIGWE BRANCH 112. C. I. OBIALOR SECRETARY OKIGWE BRANCH 113. CHUZZY ATTAMA CHAIRMAN ORLU BRANCH 114. OGE EZEONYE SECRETARY ORLU BRANCH 115. OKOLIE OJO NEC REP ORLU BRANCH 116. CHIEF B.E.A. EBEARO CHAIRMAN MBANO-ETITI BRANCH 117. OJINTA ANENE CHAIRMAN ENUGU BRANCH 118. KENNEDY I. ONWUSI SECRETARY ENUGU BRANCH 119. OTUKWU NNAMDI NEC REP ENUGU BRANCH 120. CHUDI OZOKOLO CHAIRMAN EZEAGU BRANCH 121. KINGSLEY ANIDIOBI NEC REP EZEAGU BRANCH 122. F.J. NWODO CHAIRMAN NSUKKA BRANCH 123. MATTHIAS ONIDOMA SECRETARY NSUKKA BRANCH 124. ELDER OYIBO CHUKWU CHAIRMAN OJI-RIVER BRANCH 125. EJIKE NWOBODO SECRETARY OJI-RIVER BRANCH 126. O.B.I. ILOGHALU NEC REP OJI-RIVER BRANCH 127. ODO JOY CHIMEZIE CHAIRMAN OBOLLO-AFOR BRANCH 128. EZEME DESMOND SECRETARY OBOLLO-AFOR BRANCH 129. CHARLES UGWU NEC REP OBOLLO-AFOR BRANCH 130. BON S. NGYOU CHAIRMAN JOS BRANCH 131. RALPH A. MONYE NEC REP JOS BRANCH 132. DAVID MSUGH KARSHIMA CHAIRMAN PANKSHIN BRANCH 133. DAVID NENFWANG YILJI SECRETARY PANKSHIN BRANCH 134. DAZI SALLAU TADDY CHAIRMAN BUKURU BRANCH 135. JACOB PETER DAWANG SECRETARY BUKURU BRANCH 136. SUNDAY ABEDNEGO NEC REP BUKURU BRANCH 137. YILSHEP Y. C. BITRUS CHAIRMAN SHENDAM BRANCH 138. CHESIL DRENKAT SECRETARY SHENDAM BRANCH 139. DR. ARUABUIKE OGBU NATH NEC REP SHENDAM BRANCH 140. SHIKAMMA KASSAM SHELTU CHAIRMAN LAFIA BRANCH

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141. MOHAMMED JIBRIN ABOKEE SECRETARY LAFIA BRANCH 142. AHMED LOKO CHAIRMAN KEFFI BRANCH 143. ILIYA A. HARUNA NEC REP KEFFI BRANCH 144. JOHN UNEKWU OKPANACHI CHAIRMAN IDAH BRANCH 145. MOHAMMED BABA USMAN SECRETARY IDAH BRANCH 146. OGWO FRIDAY OJOCHIDE NEC REP IDAH BRANCH 147. M.Y. ABDULLAHI CHAIRMAN LOKOJA BRANCH 148. M.A. ABBASS SECRETARY LOKOJA BRANCH 149. LIMAN SALIHU NEC REP LOKOJA BRANCH 150. SIAKA O. ODEGE CHAIRMAN OKENE BRANCH 151. KINGSLEY WISDOM SECRETARY OKENE BRANCH 152. DR. M.F.M. OBAMERO CHAIRMAN KABBA BRANCH 153. C. O. DANIELS SECRETARY KABBA BRANCH 154. R.S. JOHN NEC REP KABBA BRANCH 155. MAI AKANDE CHAIRMAN ILORIN BRANCH 156. JOHN DADA SECRETARY ILORIN BRANCH 157. M.T. GUNDUOR CHAIRMAN GBOKO BRANCH 158. M.L. AONDOAKAA SECRETARY GBOKO BRANCH 159. P.T. IORZUA NEC REP GBOKO BRANCH 160. JOB KALBU ISHEMBER CHAIRMAN MAKURDI BRANCH 161. POLYCARP AANDE TERSOO SECRETARY MAKURDI BRANCH 162. MAIMUNA M. IKWULONO NEC REP MAKURDI BRANCH 163. PRINCE INNOCENT A. OCHOGA CHAIRMAN OTUKPO BRANCH 164. SHEHU OCHE ADA SECRETARY OTUKPO BRANCH 165. MOHAMMED WAZIRI ABDULKADIR SECRETARY MINNA BRANCH 166. HON. M.NDAYAKO NEC REP MINNA BRANCH 167. ABIMBOLA MICHAEL KAYODE CHAIRMAN ABUJA BRANCH 168. CHIDI EZENWAFOR SECRETARY ABUJA BRANCH 169. IZUORA OZIOMA NEC REP ABUJA BRANCH 170. MOHAMMED I. TSAV CHAIRMAN BWARI BRANCH 171. SHADRACH O. OSIAJE SECRETARY BWARI BRANCH 172. CHUKWUDI NWEKE NEC REP BWARI BRANCH 173. ANUGOM IFEANYICHUKWU CHAIRMAN GWAGWALADA BRANCH 174. AUWWAL MOHAMMAD SECRETARY GWAGWALADA BRANCH 175. SULEIMAN SHUAIBU CHAIRMAN KADUNA BRANCH 176. RAYMOND EMETO SECRETARY KADUNA BRANCH 177. WAKILI D. KADIMA CHAIRMAN KAFANCHAN BRANCH 178. KINGSLEY BABA YAKUNAT SECRETARY KAFANCHAN BRANCH 179. ADEKUNLE SAUBANA YEMI CHAIRMAN ZARIA BRANCH 180. MICHAEL CHUKWUEMEKA OGBONNAYA CHAIRMAN BARNAWA BRANCH 181. KABIR MOMOH SECRETARY BARNAWA BRANCH 182. NAPOLEON IDENALA NEC REP BARNAWA BRANCH 183. HUSSAINI ZAKARIYAU CHAIRMAN BIRNIN-KEBBI BRANCH 184. SHAMSUDEEN JAAFAR SECRRTARY BIRNIN-KEBBI BRANCH 185. LAWAL H. GARBA NEC REP BIRNIN-KEBBI BRANCH 186. UMAR ISA SULEIMAN SECRETARY UNGOGO BRANCH

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187. MUSTAPHA IMAM NEC REP UNGOGO BRANCH 188. ABDULLAHI A. BATURE NEC REP KANO BRANCH 189. BASHIR USAINI CHAIRMAN DUTSE BRANCH 190. GARBA ABUBAKAR SECRETARY DUTSE BRANCH 191. SULEH UMAR NEC REP DUTSE BRANCH 192. AHMED ALHAJI ABDULGAFFAR CHAIRMAN KATSINA BRANCH 193. S.Y. WURMA SECRETARY KATSINA BRANCH 194. SHAFI’I BARA’U NEC REP KATSINA BRANCH 195. BARA’U FASKARI ABDULLAHI CHAIRMAN FUNTUA BRANCH 196. ANAS ABDULLAHI DABO SECRETARY FUNTUA BRANCH 197. SANI ABUBAKAR SECRETARY SOKOTO BRANCH 198. LEMA SAMBO WALI NEC REP SOKOTO BRANCH 199. BELLO IDRIS GALADI CHAIRMAN GUSAU BRANCH 200. AMINU JUNAIDU NEC REP GUSAU BRANCH 201. YUGUDA GHAJI BELLO CHAIRMAN BIU BRANCH 202. A. H. GONI SECRETARY BIU BRANCH 203. B. A. MODU NEC REP BIU BRANCH 204. ARDO BUBA SECRETARY MAIDUGURI BRANCH 205. BABA KURA KAKA NEC REP MAIDUGURI BRANCH 206. AJI BUBAKARI KAMALE CHAIRMAN YOLA BRANCH 207. JIBRIL IBRAHIM JIMETA SECRETARY YOLA BRANCH 208. EVERASTUS ODO NEC REP YOLA BRANCH 209. MUAWIYAH MUHAD DADI CHAIRMAN MUBI BRANCH 210. A.S. GUMBA SECRETARY BAUCHI BRANCH 211. F. U. SARKI NEC REP BAUCHI BRANCH 212. VICTOR LAIMA CHAIRMAN GOMBE BRANCH 213. ALHASSAN MU’AZU SECRETARY GOMBE BRANCH 214. A.G.M. BELLO NEC REP GOMBE BRANCH 215. ABBA ZANNA MAIDODO SECRETARY DAMATURU BRANCH 216. USMAN LUKMAN NUHU NEC REP DAMATURU BRANCH 217. IKECHUKWU CHRISTOPHER OSUJI CHAIRMAN JALINGO BRANCH 218. COMFORT YUBUIN SECRETARY JALINGO BRANCH 219. ALI IGUDA USMAN CHAIRMAN WUKARI BRANCH 220. H.M. OWEKA SECRETARY WUKARI BRANCH 221. FEMI GABRIEL FALODUN SECRETARY OYO BRANCH 222. JOHN OLUWOLE AKINTAYO CHAIRMAN IBADAN BRANCH 223. AKEEM ADEWALE OKELOLA SECRETARY IBADAN BRANCH 224. PROMISE AJA SECRETARY OGBOMOSHO BRANCH 225. CHIEF ESTHER ADESANYA FUNMILAYO NEC REP OGBOMOSHO BRANCH 226. OLU-ALADE EMMANUEL CHAIRMAN ABEOKUTA BRANCH 227. M.B. GANIYU CHAIRMAN IJEBU-ODE BRANCH 228. ISAAC OMUTA OGBAH CHAIRMAN OTTA BRANCH 229. PRINCE DEBO ODUGUWA CHAIRMAN SAGAMU BRANCH 230. M.I. RASHEED SECRETARY SAGAMU BRANCH 231. OLUMUYIWA OBANEWA NEC REP SAGAMU BRANCH 232. IKECHUKWU RAPHEAL UWANNA SECRETARY LAGOS BRANCH 233. PRINCE DELE OLOKE CHAIRMAN IKEJA BRANCH

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234. DILIBE CHINEDU IFEZUE SECRETARY IKEJA BRANCH 235. CAROLINE AITUAJE IBHARUNAEFE NEC REP IKEJA BRANCH 236. AKINLADE ADEBAYO CHAIRMAN IKORODU BRANCH 237. NNAMANI JULIUS SECRETARY IKORODU BRANCH 238. ADEDOTUN ADETUNJI NEC REP IKORODU BRANCH 239. CHIGBO MARTIN OKAFOR CHAIRMAN BADAGRY BRANCH 240. ADESOLA SUNDAY ABIMBOLA CHAIRMAN EPE BRANCH 241. TANSIRU ALADE OGUNLAJA SECRETARY EPE BRANCH 242. SAMUEL OLAKANMI FALADE CHAIRMAN ADO-EKITI BRANCH 243. AKEREDOLU TEMIDAYO PETER SECRETARY ADO-EKITI BRANCH 244. GBEMIGA ADARAMOLA NEC REP ADO-EKITI BRANCH 245. OLUDAYO OLORUNFEMI CHAIRMAN IKERE-EKITI BRANCH 246. SUNDAY MICHEAL AFOLAYAN SECRETARY IKERE-EKITI BRANCH 247. OLUBUNMI OLUGBADE NEC REP IKERE-EKITI BRANCH 248. AKANINYENE EKANEM AKPAN CHAIRMAN IKOLE-EKITI BRANCH 249. EZEKIEL AGUNBIADE SECRETARY IKOLE-EKITI BRANCH 250. HON. BAYO IDOWU NEC REP IKOLE-EKITI BRANCH 251. OLA DAN OLAWALE CHAIRMAN AKURE BRANCH 252. ONIMISI F. UMAR SECRETARY AKURE BRANCH 253. OSO ADETUNJI NEC REP AKURE BRANCH 254. DAVID OLABODE ADENIJI CHAIRMAN ONDO BRANCH 255. THOMPSON AKINYEMI SECRETARY ONDO BRANCH 256. AHMED TAJUDEEN OLUTOPE CHAIRMAN OWO BRANCH 257. CLEMENT OLUROTIMI OLORUNMEKESECRETARY OWO BRANCH 258. ADEWUMI WILLIAMS FABULUJE NEC REP OWO BRANCH 259. BAGBE OMOLOLU CHAIRMAN OKITIPUPA BRANCH 260. TONY OYIBO NEC REP OKITIPUPA BRANCH 261. RASHEED OLANREWAJU KAZEEM CHAIRMAN IKARE AKOKO BRANCH 262. OGUNMODEDE OMOTAN OLUSOLA SECRETARY IKARE AKOKO BRANCH 263. OLORUNMEKE ADEBAYO ISAAC NEC REP IKARE AKOKO BRANCH 264. S.K.OLOWOLAGBE CHAIRMAN IKIRUN BRANCH 265. NIYI AKINSOLA SECRETARY IKIRUN BRANCH 266. WILLIAMS AJAYI CHAIRMAN ILE-IFE BRANCH 267. O. N. BABATUNDE SECRETARY ILE-IFE BRANCH 268. OLAYINKA SOKOYA SECRETARY ILESA BRANCH 269. S. B. AJIBADE CHAIRMAN OSOGBO BRANCH 270 NURENI OKUNLOLA SECRETARY OSOGBO BRANCH 271. I.T. EWOGBADE CHAIRMAN IWO BRANCH 272. F. O. AJANI SECRETARY IWO BRANCH 273. TONA AKANDE NEC REP IWO BRANCH

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F. CO-OPTED MEMBERS

1. ALBERT AKPOMUDJE, SAN 2. YUSUF OLAOLU ALI, SAN 3. ADEBAYO OBA ADELODUN, SAN 4. SULEIMAN USMAN, SAN 5. DAMIAN D. DODO, SAN 6. J. K. GADZAMA, SAN 7. C. A. AJUYAH, SAN 8. MIKE OZEKHOME, SAN 9. NNAMONSO EKANEM, SAN 10. FERDINAND ORBIH, SAN 11. SOLOMON UMOH, SAN 12. MFON USORO 13. GARBA TERTENGI, SAN 14. TEMPLE WAAMAH 15. ZAINAB ATOBA 16. OGAGA EMOGHWANRE 17. FRANCIS EKWERE 18. BOB IJIOMA 19. AMA ETUWEWE 20. MARC ENAMHE 21. FATIMATU BATULU MUHAMMAD 22. SAFIYA BALARABE 23. AIKHUNEGBE ANTHONY MALIK 24. ISAH ABUBAKAR ALIYU 25. RAZAK ISENALUMHE 26. IBRAHIM ABDUL, SAN 27. CHUKWUMA EZEALA 28. VICTOR ABASIAKAN-EKIM 29. PAUL EBIALA 30. ANTHONY ATATA 31. S.A. ABBAS 32. LINDA BALA 33. VICTOR OTOMIEWO 34. OGHENERO OKORO 35. UCHECHUKWU EUBONNAH OGBONNAYA 36. IYABODE OGUNSEYE 37. EBOSELE OKHIFOH 38. DAVID MADUKU 39. FRANCIS C. OKALA 40. GWEKE AKUDEHOR 41. AUSTIN AJINEH 42. MBANUGO UDENZE 43. L. U. OVWROMOH 44. MAHMUD A. GARUBA

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G. APOLOGIES

1. ADEGBOYEGA SOLOMON AWOMOLO, SAN 2. OFFIONG EFFIONG BASSEY OFFIONG, SAN 3. ASSAM EMMA ASSAM 4. AARE ISIAKA ABIOLA OLAGUNJU 5. AMAKA EZENO 6. MRS. PATRICIA IFEOMA IGWEBUIKE 7. TOB KEKEMEKE, ESQ 8. EKPEYONG NTOMKIN 9. NELLA ANDEM-RABANA, SAN 10. ABIMBOLA AKEREDOLU, SAN 11. CHARLES UWENSUYI-EDOSOMWAN, SAN 12. STEVE ADEHI, SAN 13. TITILAYO AKINLAWON, SAN 14. KONYINSOLA AJAYI, SAN 15. PROF. WAHAB EGBEWOLE, SAN 16. MURTALA ABDUL-RASHEED 17. OLU AKPATA 18. MUHAMMAD NUHU 19. ABIGAIL N. WAYA 20. JOY GBANIGO 21. YAKUBU PHILEMON

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2.0 AGENDA FOR THE NEC MEETING 1. NEC Prayer 2. Review of the Minutes of the NEC meeting of Thursday, 6thDecember, 2018 and Emergency NEC Meeting of 28th January, 2019. 3. Matters arising from the minutes 4. President’s speech 5. Financial Reports & Related/Ancillary Matters 6. Reports from Committees 7. Rule of Law and related matters/State of the Nation 8. Any other business

3.0 COMMENCEMENT The President called the meeting to order at 10:31 am with the NBA prayer offered by Chief O. C. J. Okocha, SAN.

4.0 PRESIDENT’S OPENING REMARKS The President welcomed National Officers and NEC Members to the Meeting and apologized that the meeting was starting a few hours behind schedule. He explained that this was due to the fact that the meeting hall was still scanty when it was time for the meeting to begin and he wanted to allow for quorum before commencing the meeting. He further apologized that members received the soft copies of the NEC Bundle just a few hours to the meeting and also for the accommodation hassles members of NEC had to go through upon arrival. He assured members that going forward, these lapses would not occur again.

5.0 AGENDA Mr. President read out the agenda for the meeting and in the absence of any amendment same was adopted.

6.0 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS The President informed the meeting that there were 2 minutes up for review: that of 6/12/18 and the emergency NEC meeting 28/1/19 which were at pages 6 – 30 and 31–45 of the NEC Bundle respectively. He called for corrections/observations in the minutes if any.

6.1 Minutes of 6/12/18

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6.1.1 Correction of Minutes

A. Under paragraph 4.0 on page 11, Mr. President pointed out that he did not apologize for the absence of the hard copies of the NEC Bundle as recorded, but instead informed the meeting that going forward, NEC Bundles would be forwarded in electronic and not hard copies.

B. In paragraph 9.0, page 24, under ‘Financial Report’, Mr. President observed that the name of the Chairman of Eket Branch who seconded the motion is ‘Mfon Etukudo’ and not ‘EfunEtukudo’ as recorded.

6.1.2 Adoption of Previous Minutes of 6/12/18 M. A. Abbas, Secretary, Lokoja Branch moved the motion for the adoption of the minutes of 6/12/18 and the Motion was seconded by Abdullahi A. Bature, NEC Rep, Kano Branch.

6.2 Minutes of 28/1/19 There were no corrections made to these minutes.

6.2.1 Adoption of Previous Minutes Oka Isaac, Chairman, Asaba Branch moved for adoption of the minutes of 28/1/2019 and the motion was seconded by Mohammed Tsav, Chairman Bwari Branch.

6.3 Matters arising from the minutes of 6/12/18. The President pointed out that most of the issues discussed at the NEC meeting of 6/12/18 were more or less resolved and others were substantive matters for the day’s meeting. It was therefore agreed that the meeting treat the unresolved matters arising from that day’s meeting under the substantive matters for the day’s meeting. 6.4 Matters arising from the minutes of the emergency NEC Meeting of 28/1/19. The President reminded members that the sole issue for the discussion at emergency NEC meeting of 28/1/19 was the issue of the suspension of the CJN, Hon. Justice W. S. N. Onnoghen, GCON. He noted that the main matter arising is the report of the 3 man committee (made up of Past Presidents Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN and A. B. Mahmoud, SAN and his humble self), set up to liaise with officials of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) on the matter. He craved the indulgence of the meeting for members of the committee to present that report later as part of the Committees’ Reports.

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7.0 PRESIDENT’S SPEECH

The President, Paul Usoro, SAN proceeded to present his address. He began by welcoming all members to the 2018/2019 Quarter 3 NEC meeting pointing out that the meeting was the 2nd NEC meeting of his administration.

7.1 Achievements of his administration He presented a summary of the achievements of his administration since the last NEC meeting to include:

1.) The introduction of the Online Payment Platform for the payment of Bar Practice Fees (“BPF”) by members. He maintained that this was one of the significant achievements of this administration. He noted that this had reduced the stress and time lawyers queue up in banks to pay their dues and practice fees as they could now make their payments online from the comfort of their homes at any time of the day or night including weekends and even from outside Nigeria. He added that the plan was already in the works to extend this online payment facility to cover payments for all other NBA related fees and dues payable by our members and third parties.

2.) The enthronement of financial accountability, transparency and prudence as regards the Association’s finances. The President reminded members that at the last NEC meeting, the Management Accounts of the Association for Quarter 2 of 2018/2019 had been published. This he maintained was a promise kept and a statement made on the resolve of the National Officers to be consistent in being financially accountable and transparent in the management of the NBA’s funds. He pledged that not a Quarter will pass in the two years of this administration without the NBA’s Quarterly Financial Statement being published. He pointed out that one of the positive knock-on consequences and effects of financial accountability and transparency is that it forces prudence on the managers of the Association’s funds, knowing that there must be an accounting to members, as all expenditure that is made, is published in the Financial Statements. He added that this fact is always present in the minds of all the executives and this in part, informs the prudent management of the Association’s funds by this administration.

3.) The institution of internal reforms in the Secretariat to make it more responsive to the needs of members and serve the Association better. He added that the feedback he had been getting in this regard was positive as members have their problems solved more quickly and with ease and stamps are delivered to members within days of the orders being received at the Secretariat from the Branches. To further enhance the Secretariat’s efficiency, he informed the meeting that he would be placing before members, a new fit- for purpose organogram for the Secretariat for approval. He pointed out that

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one of the innovations in the new organogram is the inclusion of the position of an Internal Auditor in the Secretariat. He explained that in any properly organized establishment, the Internal Auditor is significant livewire personnel for ensuring prudence and accountability in financial management and no serious and successful organization operates in modern times without the personnel that fulfills that role. He therefore called on NEC to approve the new organogram as that would further entrench financial transparency, accountability and prudence at the Secretariat.

4.) NEC was informed that work had started on the revamping and modernization of the NBA website with the right customer experience, aesthetics and functionality and the website will be unveiled by or before the next NEC meeting. The President pointed out that the new website, apart from serving as information portal will also have functional uses like an interactive profile which to allow for online resolution of problems and issues by users of the website. He noted that these attributes were absent in the Association’s website.

The President explained that the website would be enhanced to cover online payments of all fees and dues to the Association. The enhancement would cover and include the creation of an online platform for ordering stamps in a manner that would ensure that branch dues and other branch levies were fully paid and satisfied by the person making the order as a condition precedent to the placement of the orders.

He added that prior to now, separate standalone websites were created each year for Annual General Conferences (“AGC”). However from this year, the AGC portal would be hosted in the NBA website and there would be no need for the award of yearly contracts for the creation of websites solely for our AGC events. The President further pointed out that some Sections of the Association currently had their own independent standalone websites which are not linked to the NBA website and SPIDEL does not even have a website; going forward, SPIDEL would be housed and hosted at the NBA website and links would be created between the modernized NBA website and the current standalone SBL and SLP websites.

He assured members that in expanding these frontiers, his administration would ensure that the Branches were fully carried along and their concerns addressed and resolved.

5.) The President reminded NEC that his administration set up a 2019 NBA Elections’ Monitoring Committee which acquitted the Association very well in monitoring those elections and publishing objective, fact-based reports thereon. He noted that the Osun State Governorship elections provided the Association with a test-run in the monitoring of the 2019 elections and the Association did not lower nor deviate from the high standards that were set by the monitors in that election. The President thanked all members countrywide 13 | P a g e

who volunteered for the monitoring exercise and duly sent their reports including photographic images to the NBA EWG for compilation of its reports.

He pointed out that for the Governorship Elections that were held on 09 March 2019, the Branches did not receive a dime from the National body and yet members joyfully and enthusiastically volunteered and creditably carried out their monitoring functions and sent reports to the National Committee, the end result of which is the final Monitoring Committee Report that would be presented to NEC at this meeting. He thanked the Branches for this.

6.) Welfare of Members: The President maintained that he was aware that members had for some time now been clamouring for the resuscitation of the life insurance cover that used to be in place for members, but which unfortunately was not renewed and was therefore not operative in the last couple of years. He informed the meeting that his administration has hearkened to the calls of her members and, apart from having discussions with ‘Leadway Assurance Plc’, the company that originally provided members with the insurance cover that became defunct, his executive have also held talks with ‘WAPIC Insurance Plc’, another reputable insurance company. The President maintained that the desire to hold talks with another insurance company was borne out of the recognition that competition always brings out the best results and gains and he was sure this scenario will play out if the NBA uses both insurance companies to the advantage of members. He stated that both organizations had made presentations to the executive on insurance covers that extend beyond life and include medical expenses, temporary and permanent disabilities and critical illness benefits. He stated that their proposals were uploaded and placed before NEC for final consideration and approval and maintained that as soon as approval is obtained, his administration would work to reinstitute this welfare package for the benefit of our members.

7.) The setting up of the ‘Technical Committee for Conference Planning’ (“TCCP”) in good time sequel to the anticipatory approval of NEC such that they have begunto plan for the Annual General Conference quite early. The President stated that he would in the course of the meeting, present the membership list of the TCCP to members. He added that one of the innovations introduced in the constitution of this year’s TCCP is that three (3) Chairmen from each of the NBA Zones were appointed as members of the Committee and representatives of their respective zones. This is necessary as the Chairmen directly feel the pulse of their members in the Branches and those that have been appointed as members of the TCCP would better appreciate the thought-process that goes into the planning and organization of the AGC, apart from bringing in fresh and vibrant perspectives into the Committee’s work schedule. The President assured that he was confident that this year’s TCCP will deliver on the promise of a world-class AGC that would be within the economic reach of members. He noted that the Committee would be presenting their first report to NEC shortly.

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8.) Promotion of the Rule of Law: The President stated that the NBA, under his administration has stood on the side and in defense of the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary and the principles of separation of powers between the three arms of government. The President pointed out that this was epitomized in the single, recent, most dominant and talked-about issue in our professional life this year to wit: issues and matters concerning the unlawful suspension of Chief Justice of Nigeria, Honorable Mr. Walter S. N. Onnoghen, GCON (“Onnoghen CJN”) where the NBA defended the rule of law in all her publications and positions taken. The President noted that the Onnoghen, CJN incident reminds us of how dangerously insecure the tenure of judicial officers is, and how susceptible to attack the independence of the judiciary is. These principles, he reiterated, have no political, tribal or religious colorations and the positions of the NBA were impervious and blind to these divisive and inhibiting considerations.

The President commended all of the Association’s members who stood up to be counted in the struggle for the promotion and protection of the rule of law vis-à-vis the Onnoghen CJN saga. He hoped that the Executive arm of the Federal Government of Nigeria would see reason not only to terminate the ongoing ugly and self-immolating spectacle at the Code of Conduct Tribunal but also find a way to resolve all the surrounding issues relating to Onnoghen CJN in a way and manner that would retrieve for all and in our collective interest what may be left of the shredded and tattered dignity of our justice sector. He maintained that the NBA remains unrelenting in its campaign in this regard.

7.2 Focus in the Coming Months Upon recounting the achievements of his administration in the preceding months, the President proceeded to inform NEC of the focus of his administration in the coming months. He highlighted some of the significant issues and activities that he will engage in and which will occupy the time and efforts of his administration in the coming months before the next NEC meeting to include:

1.) Constitution and Electoral Review: NEC having graciously granted the President an anticipatory approval for the composition of the Constitution and Electoral Review Committee, the President stated that he would be publishing the composition of the Committee in the next couple of days with matching orders for them to consult with members and Branches and come up with a reviewed Constitution and Electoral process for the Association. The President assured that similar to the composition of the TCCP, his administration would ensure that representative Chairmen are appointed to this Committee from the Branches. The Committee would have a timeline that would ensure the presentation of the amended Constitution at the Annual General Meeting that would be held during the AGC in August 2019.

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2.) Alternative Sources of Funds: The President maintained that given the Association’s debt overhang as shown in her Financial Statement, it is imperative that they be alternative sources of funds. In this regard, he stated that his administration would be working quite hard in the coming months to find those alternative sources including raising funds from her patrons and members. He promised to update NEC with all efforts in this regard.

3.) Clean Data Capture: NEC was informed that the current administration hadalready started working on the verification of the Association’s membership data as a prelude to creating a clean database of her members which would be used for all purposes including but not at all limited to the NBA elections. The President reminded NEC that this was one of the significant campaign promises made and he hoped that this project would have been largely done with by or before the AGC in August 2019.

4.) Young Lawyers: The President stated that in the coming days and months, the Council of the Young Lawyers Forum (YLF) would be constituted, having been granted anticipatory approval during the 06 December 2018 meeting. He pointed out that happily, the NBA has great champions of young lawyers amongst the National Officers, one of the leading ones being Akorede Habeeb Lawal, the Assistant Publicity Secretary whom he described as one of the most young-lawyers-centric members of his Team and who bubbles with several ideas and thoughts concerning young lawyers which he had shared with him and which he plans to implement in the coming months.

5.) Rule of Law: The President pledged that his administration would continue to promote and protect the Rule of Law as its lead motif. He noted that the rule of law permeates the entirety of our professional lives and is not dated howsoever; it is a principle and fight that is immutable and alive at all times and demands eternal vigilance. He pledged to continue to live up to his administration’s commitment in this regard. He added that in the coming months, his administration would beam even more searchlight into the crevices of our national life where the Rule of Law and its twin principle, the Fundamental Rights of our people, may be under assault and in bondage and would continue to speak out in defense of these principles and will equally commend the authorities when such commendations are deserved.

FRN v Usoro The President then informed members that he cannot conclude his address without updating NEC members on his prosecution by the EFCC on allegations of money laundering in the case of FRN v Usoro. He reminded the meeting that he had presented the facts of the charge to them during the 06 December 2018 NEC meeting and those facts have not changed howsoever. He went on to inform the meeting that the Proof of Evidence which was subsequently served on him does not contain any fact that contradicts the position that he had presented to NEC to wit: that he is being prosecuted for:-

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(a) Professional fees totaling N1.1bn that were legitimately earned and paid to Paul Usoro & Co (“PUC”) by Akwa Ibom State Government (“AKSG”) between 2015 and 2016; and

(b) Professional fees totaling N300m that were paid to PUC by Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State for the benefit of our colleagues who provided professional services to the Governor.

The President stated that the PUC Bank Statement of Account that forms part of the Proof of Evidence clearly shows that the N300m was duly paid to those colleagues of ours who rendered those services to the Governor. He maintained that the N1.1bn was not and is not the property of AKSG and nobody, apart from the EFCC, has claimed otherwise; he also added that the N300m to the best of his knowledge was not paid from the coffers of AKSG and no one apart from the EFCC has so claimed. He informed members that as the trial unfolds, he will keep them duly informed.

He thanked all members for the overwhelming support and solidarity that he and his family have enjoyed and received from across the nation; especially for seeing this persecution for what it is: a struggle for the soul of our profession and means of livelihood and not just the persecution of Paul. He also thanked his team of lawyers, led by past President, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN for all their work on his behalf and expressed confidence that all collective efforts would be rewarded and truth will ultimately out and we will all be vindicated.

The President went on to add that his current persecution is not isolated. He pointed out that the legal profession, is under siege. For the very first time, both in the country’s history and in the history of the Association, the NBA Elections of 2018 has been the subject of purported investigation by the EFCC. He stated that he does not believe that such an investigation is within the purview of the EFCC, seeing as there was no financial or economic crime that was alleged. He also added that he is not aware that the EFCC has taken as much interest in the activities of other professionals and their associations as it has taken in the legal profession and the NBA, particularly in recent years. He therefore concluded that the legal profession and indeed the justice sector, is under siege as even the Independent Corrupt Practice Commission (“ICPC”) has taken to inviting past Presidents and General Secretaries for questioning over the contract award for the construction of our National Secretariat. He however added that these agencies do not act alone; they act in close collaboration with some members of the NBA pointing out that the petition that triggered the purported EFCC investigation into the NBA 2018 Elections, for example, was written by one of her members. He sadly noted that members of the NBA have taken to reporting themselves to the EFCC even in internal matters of the Association which could be resolved internally; he advised that such persons need to rethink their ways and reassess all circumstances in this regard, in the collective interest, for the collective good and for the good of the legal profession and the Association.

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In conclusion, the President thanked the President of the National Industrial Court, Honorable Justice B. A. Adejumo, for graciously sponsoring the cocktail that was held for NEC members on Wednesday, 27 March 2019. He also thanked the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory, Honorable Justice Ishaq Bello, who was kind enough to provide the NBA with the venue for the cocktail. Further thanks went to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, for partially sponsoring the evening’s dinner event for members and to Access Bank Plc who also made a donation for the hosting of this NEC meeting. The President again thanked all NEC members, for their support and consistent encouragement. He wished all fruitful deliberations at the meeting and a safe journey back to their various Branches.

A motion was moved for the adoption of the President’s speech.

SECRETARIAT REPORT

The General Secretary began his report by thanking all for their show of concern at the passing of his mother. He went on to welcome all members of NEC to the meeting. He informed the house that a comprehensive Secretariat report had been prepared since the last NEC meeting until now and the report is in two parts: Part A on Pages 6 – 18 focuses on reports from the National Secretariat Part B on Pages 19 – 52 focuses on reports from members of staff of the National Secretariat. He urged members to go through the report. Mallam Yusuf Ali SAN moved for adoption of the Secretariat Report to open same for discussion. The said motion was seconded by the NEC Rep, Warri Branch. 7.3 Organogram of the Secretariat Arising from the Secretariat Report, the President informed the house that the organogram of the Secretariat has been restructured and a new organogram has been drawn. In the new organogram, the position of an internal auditor has been created whose responsibility will include auditing the flow of petty cash in the secretariat by staff. Furthermore, he informed the meeting that a Department of Corporate Registry had also been created to keep the records of the Association and their minutes so that subsequent administrations can make reference to these documents when the need arises; another Department was also constituted to document, monitor and follow up bills in the National Assembly.

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The President informed NEC that an HR firm was engaged to draw up the new organogram for the Secretariat and if NEC approves the new organogram, they will work to ensure that the right persons fill these positions in the organogram. NEC was informed that the HR firm agreed on a fee of N5, 000, 000 .00 (Five Million Naira) for the assignment and the President prayed NEC to approve the new organogram as well as the N5,000,000.00 fee for the HR Firm’s work. NimiWalson-Jack, past General Secretary questioned the necessity for engaging another HR Firm for the NBA Secretariat restructuring assignment when we had the KPMG Report which was yet to be implemented. He also raised concerns about the cost-efficiency of the proposed organogram, when implemented. He further observed that in the new organogram there is no unit or department charged with the responsibility for educating the public on the law.

In response, the President apologized for not consulting first with NEC before engaging the HR Firm for the restructuring assignment. He explained that time was of the essence and as NEC held meetings once in three months, he needed to set things in motion. On the price, he explained that he had approached PwC but their quotation, compared with the Firm that was hired, was rather prohibitive apart from the fact that the scope of work which the HR Firm was providing was larger than what PwC offered. In other words, NBA was having more for less from the HR Firm. The President further pointed out that the KPMG Report did not howsoever address the operating organogram of the NBA Secretariat. He however agreed with Nimi Walson-Jack that it was imperative that a unit should be created to communicate with members and the public on the rule of law and other pertinent issues of law. He assured the house that the social media team would take up that task. Mr. Razak Isenalumhe appreciated the effort of the President and his team in running the affairs of the Association. He moved for the adoption of the proposed organogram and further moved that the N5,000,000.00 that was agreed with the HR Firm for the assignment be approved. The motions were unanimously adopted by the house. Ozioma Izuora, NEC Rep, Abuja Branch suggested that as the new innovative Organogram was just reaching the house, a Committee be set up to review the innovations before we proceed. Mr. President pointed out that Committees require funding and he is very reluctant to set up any such Committee given the parlous state of the Association’s purse more so as his administration is trying to cut down costs. The Chairman Nnewi Branch, Ugwuanyi Paschal Chukwuemeka asked to know how and what Mr. President is doing to see that the good innovations his administration is setting up will be continued by subsequent administrations. Mr. President answered by assuring the house that a constitutional review is under 19 | P a g e

way to perpetuate some of these innovations; he also advised that people with same views should be sought and elected into office. 8.0 REPORTS FROM NATIONAL OFFICERS

8.1 1ST VICE PRESIDENT In presenting his report, the 1st Vice President stated that his report is contained at page 7 of the Secretariat Report. He enjoined the house to adopt same. The Chairman, Asaba branch moved for the adoption of the Vice President’s report and same was seconded by the NEC Rep of Orlu branch. 2ND VICE PRESIDENT The 2nd Vice President stated that her report is contained on pages 8-10 of the Secretariat Report. She gave a report of Bar activities in the Western Branches and talked about her investigations of crisis in some branches of the Western zone. Ikorodu Branch On the crisis in Ikorodu Branch, she reported that the crisis was still ongoing but was receiving attention from the President. The main issue was that the Branch Chairman, BayoAkinlade, conducted bye-elections for the office of Vice Chairman of the Branch on Friday, March 15, 2019 without due supervision of the national Secretariat, inspite of her advise against it as 2nd VP and inspite of a clear directive from the President of the NBA through the General Secretary dated 13th March, 2019, directing him to suspend the elections until a petition against the conduct of the election written by one Ezekiel Ogbaide is addressed. She further added that from the actions of the said Bayo Akinlade, he has gross disrespect and disregard for the Bar which have been expressed in several ways including a public declaration by the said Mr. Akinlade in February, 2018 after the emergency NEC Meeting suggesting that his Branch were not bound by the national Bar’s decisions and further asking his Branch members not to join in the court boycott as instructed by NEC. She pointed out that his direct affront to the instructions of the NBA President conveyed via the General Secretary to halt the purported bye-election was an example of his disrespect and disregard for the Bar. She therefore made the following recommendations: 1. That the Ikorodu Branch cannot exist independently of the National Bar as claimed by the Chairman. The Branch is not autonomous and Mr. BayoAkinlade is not an island unto himself.

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2. That the purported election for Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Branch should be declared a nullity. She also recommended that no newly elected officer of Ikorodu Branch should be recognized.

3. That the Chairman, Mr. Bayo Akinlade, should be made to answer to the Secretariat and be subjected to the NBA internal proceedings on discipline including other measures that the President and NEC may deem fit. Warri Branch On the crisis in Warri branch, the 2nd Vice President reported that following the report submitted to NEC in the 1st quarterly report and the petition received from Oghenero Okoro, Esq, the President of the NBA in his wisdom, decided to personally handle the matter due to its sensitive nature. Ikeja Branch On the Ikeja Branch crisis, the 2nd Vice President reported that a past branch Chairman of the Branch, Mr. Adesina Ogunlana had been in EFCC custody for a period of 5 days prior to the announcement on social media. She informed NEC that she had spoken to Mr. Ogunlana and he had given her an oral summary of his travails at the EFCC. She also informed the meeting in her report that another past Branch Chairman, Mr. Yinka Farounbi, had as a result of a petition written by some members of the Branch, been arrested during the Branch meeting and detained in EFCC custody. She further informed the meeting that the wife of the Branch Chairman was also arrested and arraigned in court alongside her husband for assaulting a female EFCC officer. She stated that the present Branch Chairman, Dele Oloke has impressed upon her office that the petitions which gave rise to the arrests preceded the current Branch administration and were beyond the scope of his intervention. The 2nd Vice President wondered why the Branch did not go through the complaint procedures set up by the NBA. She noted that the Branch Chairman offered some explanations through his report dated 6thMarch, 2019 and same has been forwarded to the Secretariat for necessary action. She added that she had communicated with members of the Branch in a bid to resolve the matter and the NBA President is currently making contact with key stake holders and elders of the branch on the best way to resolve the issue as the EFCC investigation is still ongoing. Benin Branch The 2nd Vice President reported that the NBA was informed of the kidnap of HRH Godwin Aigbe, the Enogie of Ukiri by the Branch’ Publicity Secretary, Mr. Douglas Ogbankwa, Esq. She stated that the President of the NBA has been informed of the unfortunate incident and she had contacted the Branch

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Chairman. She prayed and hoped that HRH Godwin Aigbe, would be released soon. Mr. Napoleon Idenala, the NEC Rep of Barnawa branch moved to adopt the report of the 2nd Vice President and same was seconded by Mr. S. Y. Wurma, Secretary Katsina branch. Reactions to the 2nd Vice President’s Report On the issue of Ikorodu branch, Chikodi Gideon S. Elendu, Esq, Secretary, Omoku Branch suggested and moved that the Chairman of Ikorodu Branch, Mr. BayoAkinlade, Esq, be suspended and sent to the NBA disciplinary Committee for disciplinary actions. His suggestion was seconded by Mr. Sylvester Adaka, Esq, Chairman, Port Harcourt Branch. Upon being notified that Mr. Bayo Akinlade was present at the meeting, the NBA Presidentinvited him to speak for himself. Hon. Obafemi Adewale, Past General Secretary however raised a point of order and stated that Mr. Akinlade was present while the debate on his conduct was raging and made no attempt to contribute howsoever and that, having now been suspended, he and cannot be given such privilege to address NEC. He said that he could explain himself, if at all, to the disciplinary Committee. NEC unanimously agreed with that point of order. Mr. Bayo Akinlade having been suspended, he was excused from the meeting halland escorted out of the meeting hall. Past President Augustine Alegeh, SAN asked what should happen to the seat of the Chairman of Ikorodu Branch upon Mr. Bayo Akinlade’s suspension. It was agreed that Mr. Ezekiel Ogbaide, the recognized Vice Chairman was directed to take over as Chairman of Ikorodu branch. It was also resolved that the unlawfully elected Vice Chairman Mrs. Gloria Cassius should not parade herself as Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Branch. The Ikorodu issue having been exhaustively handled, members proceeded to discuss other pressing matters. N. A. Garuba, co-opted NEC member from Auchi Branch expressed concern about a trending issue in the NBA wherein members no longer follow the internally accepted procedures for complaints before writing petitions against their colleagues all in a bid to tarnish their image and rubbish their name. He maintained that such persons should be dealt with or penalized. Past General Secretary, Nimi Wilson-Jack spoke on the Ikeja Branch issue. He noted that before NEC proceeds with getting members out of EFCC custody, the Association needs to first tender an apology to the EFCC for the assault on her staff. However, Past President O. C. J. Okocha, SAN countered that suggestion and frowned at the scenario where the EFCC came to arrest the past Chairman

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and did not have the decency to wait for him outside the meeting venue for him to finish his meeting. He pointed out that if that kind of attitude is not checked, some day security agents may barge into the NBA auditorium while a meeting is ongoing to arrest someone without courtesy or regard for the meeting. 9.0 FINANCIAL REPORTS & RELATED/ANCILLARY MATTERS

9.1 Treasurer’s report

The Treasurer presented her report pointing out that the said report is contained at pages 11 – 13 of the Secretariat report. She gave the house a breakdown of accounts, stating that the statement of activities of the 1st quarter showed a deficit of N366,445,804 arising from a total income of N544, 574, 308, less a total expenditure of N910, 420, 112 and N500, 000 Finance cost.

She however noted that the statement of the Association as at the last quarter shows a remarkable surplus of N76, 711, 195 arising from a total income of N189, 135, 389, less a total expenditure of N110, 924, 194 and N1, 500, 000 .00 Finance cost.

For the quarter ended, 31st January, 2019, (Q2), the Association’s bank balances are N163, 128, 100 majority of which are special funds for specific projects in restricted accounts like the MacArthur Foundation account, the Stamp and Seal Account, the NEC Account, the Bar Practicing Fee Account, Human Rights Institute Account etc.

She assured all that the current administration is committed to financial prudence, transparency and accountability in order to ensure that the NBA becomes financially viable as it used to be. To this end, there will be a continuous cut down on costs.

The Chairman, Abeokuta Branch, Olu-Alade Emmanuel, moved for the adoption of the Treasurer’s report to be discussed. His motion was seconded by the Chairman, Sagbama Branch, Dise Sheila Ogbise.

The President explained further and clarified other issues in the Treasurer’s report.

9.2 Financial Secretary’s report The Financial Secretary informed the meeting that his report is contained at pages 14 and 15 of the Secretariat Report.

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He informed the house that in line with the constitutional mandate of the office of the Financial Secretary in Section 8(5)(j)(i-iv) of the NBA Constitution, 2015 he and his assistant are in constant touch with the branches through their Financial Secretaries to ensure that members pay their BPF. He informed the meeting that an interface had been created with the Financial Secretaries where information is shared. He further stated that his office had made several publications on various platforms reminding and urging members to pay their BPF as and when due and he maintained that he was sure that this encouraged members to pay their BPF timeously.

He intimated the house that the current administration has made the payment of dues easy and stress-free with the creation of its online payment platform and encouraged members to take advantage of the initiative. On the issue of compilation and circulation of the list of members who have paid or are in default in respect of their practicing fees, he stated that his office had begun a compilation of the list of members who have paid the BPF and would conclude and circulate same in the various Courts and other statutory bodies after March 31st, 2019.

Furthermore, the Financial Secretary informed members of the introduction of the petty cash book policy created to account for inflow and outflow of funds from the Secretariat account. He called for members to move a motion for the adoption of the newly introduced petty cash policy for the Secretariat.

Mr. Newman Richards moved for the adoption of the Financial Secretary’s report for discussions and same was seconded by K. I. Onwusi, Secretary, Enugu branch.

Mr. NsikakIkpeme, Secretary Calabar Branch moved the motion for the adoption of the newly introduced petty cash policy for the Secretariat and same was seconded by F. N. Otuokere, NEC Rep, Owerri branch.

The Chairman, Markurdi Branch, Job KalbuIshembar, Esq, moved for the adoption of the Financial statement as presented by the Financial Secretary and same was seconded by secretary of Ondo Branch, Thompson Akinyemi.

9.3 Publicity Secretary’s Report Illegal Printing of Stamps:The Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kunle Edun raised an alarming issue of concern that some persons have been producing the NBA stamps and were receiving patronage from lawyers. He advised such lawyers to desist from patronizing such illegality because when these culprits are apprehended, they too will be victims.

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The meeting broke for lunch at about 2:26pm and the president asked that we reconvene at 3:30pm. The meeting resumed at about 3:52pm.

9.4 Welfare Secretary’s Report The Welfare Secretary, Joshua Enemali Usman presented his report as contained in pages 16 – 18 of the Secretariat Report. He tendered a proposal to the house for the revival of Lawyers insurance policy. He stated that his plan to revive the policy was mandated by the President and he has reached out to Leadway Insurance company, the Association’s Insurance Company and discovered that over 30 death benefits of lawyers cannot be accessed due to the fact that the NBA had not been faithful with its payment of Lawyers insurance premium with the existing Insurance Company. He informed NEC that he had further informed Leadway Insurance Plc of the need to have a medical expenses policy for members since the ‘Critical Illness’ policy was not comprehensive enough, however, ‘Leadway Insurance Plc’ was yet to get back to him. In order for the Association to have a more comprehensive cover, the Welfare Secretary stated that he had also commenced talks with a new Insurance company, WAPIC Insurance company, and the company had made a proposal which he is presenting before NEC. In closing, the Welfare secretary apologized for the lapses of his office in sorting out hotel accommodation for NEC members upon their arrival; he promised that such failings will not re-occur in future. Sule Shuaibu, Esq, Chairman, Kaduna Branch moved for adoption of the Welfare Secretary’s report for discussion and same was seconded by the Alhassan Mu’azu, Secretary, Gombe Branch.

In reacting to the Welfare Secretary’s report, Past President Augustine Alegeh, SAN, suggested that while it was good to have discussions with a new Insurance Company, the Association should still keep Leadway Insurance as they served the Association well and provided cover for what was requested and moreso, it was the Association that failed to pay its premium and not the Insurance Company who defaulted in any way. After discussions and clarifications by the President, NEC gave its approval for the Welfare Secretary to proceed with negotiations with the 2 Insurance companies and finalize with the best deal.

10.0 REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES 10.1 Report of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC)

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The report of the LPDC was given by Mr. Charles Ajuyah, SAN. He stated that the report covered the period from December 2018 to March 2019. During this period 10 petitions were withdrawn and dismissed. He stated that the LPDC sat 7 times within the last quarter (January to March), at the Court of Appeal Complex and still had 27 complains pending. NEC was further informed that in this time frame, the LPDC had received 2 applications for names to be readmitted on the roll from Olawale Ojugie Daniel and Kingsley Audu. These applications were granted, the applicants having informed the LPDC that they had served their sentences and are now of good behavior. The learned silk formally informed NEC of some significant developments that had occurred which affected the sitting of the committee. He stated that there had been 2 recent judgments of the Supreme Court in 2 matters:

1.) The 1st judgment declared that the NBA is not a juristic person and as such cannot sue and be sued. This affects the right to present charges against lawyers at the LPDC as charges are drafted with the NBA as the complainant.

2.) The 2nd judgment is to the effect that the primary complainant must be present at trials to prove the allegations. This affects the NBA as its proceedings has dispensed with the need for the presence of the primary complainant during NBA disciplinary proceedings at the LPDC.

He stated that these raise very serious concerns for the Association thus the prosecuting team has met and will still meet to figure the best way out. The Body of Benchers is also looking into the matter and by the next meeting, he hoped that a solution would have been reached. He informed NEC that for this reason, the LPDC’s March meeting has been suspended.

The Secretary, Nsukka Branch moved for the report to be discussed. He was seconded by Sani Abubakar, Secretary, Sokoto branch.

The NBA President agreed that these decisions raise serious concerns. He called on all members to study the said judgments critically with a view to finding a solution to the challenges that have emerged as a result of the Supreme Court judgments. The Chairman of Asaba branch pointed out that that when there is a decision taken against any member by the LPDC, his/her branch should be formally informed about such a decision so that such a person will not surreptitiously continue to practice, and his branch being none the wiser. Charles Ajuyah, SAN agreed that going forward, that will be done. 26 | P a g e

10.2 Report of the Section on Business Law (SBL)

The report of the Section on Business Law (SBL) was presented by the Chairman of the SBL Council, Seni Adio. He pointed out that the report is contained in pages 107-112 of the NEC bundle.

He stated that activities carried out by SBL since December 2018 include: training of lawyers on ‘Boosting Law Office Productivity using Microsoft office applications’ (13-14 Dec., 2018); Insurance and Pension Members’ Forum (January 31, 2019); Agriculture Committee Inaugural Meeting (22nd February, 2019); NBA-SBL Mentorship programmes; the establishment of the NBA SBL Centre for Commercial Studies (CCLS)l; the SBL Unilag Club excursion (March 21, 2019); Arbitration ADR Seminar (25th March,2019); a three day training program for young lawyers in the area of banking and finance; another program in Enugu for the capital market; a similar one held in Warri too amongst other activities.

He also stated that the NBA-SBL in collaboration with the UK Legal Services trade Mission to Nigeria will be organizing a seminar on the 3rd of April, 2019 at the Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The meeting was also informed that the notice of the Annual Business Law Conference scheduled to come up on the 26th of June, 2019 in Lagos has been announced. These and more are contained in the SBL report in the NEC Bundle. Adaka Sylvester, Esq, Chairman, Port Harcourt Branch moved to adopt the SBL report and same was seconded by Ogaga, Esq of Benin Branch.

10.3 Report of the NBA Ad-Hoc Election Monitoring Group (NBA-EWG) The report of the NBA Ad-hoc Election Monitoring Group was presented by the Chairman of the Committee, Mazi Afam Osigwe, Past General Secretary. He stated that the Committee report is contained in pages 62 to 71 of the NEC bundle. He explained that the committee is made up of 22 members. He noted that there was high turn out on the first day of the elections but the turn out reduced on subsequent elections.

Chidi B. Nnaji, Secretary, Idemili Branch, moved the motion for the adoption of the report for discussion and same was seconded by Ada Shehu Oche, Secretary, Otukpo Branch.

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The Committee was highly commended for presenting a very factual and fair report. It was declared that the report is one of the best reports received as it is detailed, with facts and evidence to back them. The meeting noted that the report was one the NBA is proud of. The Committee was encouraged to continue the good work. The President declared that the report will be released/published to the public.

10.4 Report of the Technical Committee on Conference Planning (TCCP) The Chairman of Lagos Branch, Chuka Ikwuazom, a member of the TCCP, presented the report on behalf of the TCCP Chairman who could not attend NEC meeting due to circumstances beyond his control. He sent his apologies. Mr. Ikwuazom stated that the report of the TCCP was in pages 73 - 106 of the NEC Bundle; he however pointed out the highlights of the report. He explained that the TCCP as part of a new innovation, had created four (4) sub committees under it which include: − Finance and fund raising committee − Technical sub committee − Content sub-committee and − Local Organising Committee. He explained that the inclusion of the LOC as one of the sub-committees under the TCCP was deliberate as the Committee seeks to prevent the conflict which existed between the TCCP and the LOC at previous Conferences. He further stated that the 2019 NBA-AGC with the theme: “Facing a future of Law”, is proposed to hold from Friday the 23rd day of August, 2019 to Thursday 29th August, 2019 in Lagos at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre; other close proximity venues will be used for the breakout sessions. He informed NEC that the venues are all available for the days required but no payment has been made to secure the venues. He added that the TCCP has chosen to deviate from the tradition of holding the opening ceremony on Sunday and has opted to hold same on Monday. For the keynote Speaker, he informed NEC that 4 persons were being considered: i.) H. E. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda ii.) H. E. Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa iii.) Richard Susskind, (Author, Speaker and Adviser to multinational firms and Governments. He is widely regarded as an authority in the field of legal technology). 28 | P a g e

iv.) H.E. Nana Akufo Ado, President of Ghana. He assured that these candidates are being considered for their accomplishments (personal or on a national level) especially in relation to the theme being proposed for the Conference. He noted that the candidates being considered may increase as the Content sub-committee’s work progresses. He stated that it is also the intention of the TCCP to invite the President and/or the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to speak at the conference, subject to the final programming agenda. On Conference fees, Mr. Ikwuazom stated that while the TCCP was conscious of the President’s mandate of a finance friendly Conference, the Committee was conscious of the economic realities of the present times and as such proposes that the NBA return to the rates for last year as follows: 1 – 5 years: - N25, 000 6 -10 years: - N35, 000 11-15 years: - N50, 000 16 – 20 years: - N70, 000 Above20 years: - N100, 000 SANs/AGs/Benchers: - N250, 000 Magistrates/Other judicial Officers: - N50, 000 Hon. Justices/Judges/Grand Khadis/Khadis: - N75, 000 Non Lawyers: - N100, 000 Int’l Delegates: - $500 He explained that potential Conference sponsors will be contacted by the Finance and Fund Raising Committee.

In the light of all the above, the TCCP prayed NEC to: a.) Release the sum of N100, 000, 000 .00 (One Hundred Million Naira) to her to allow the TCCP make some Conference planning financial arrangements, like making a deposit on the venue, etc. b.) Approve the proposed Conference fees. The report was adopted for discussion by the Chairman, NBA Asaba branch Freddie T. Eruliede and seconded by Garba, Esq, co-opted NEC member, Auchi Branch.

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On reactions from the house regarding the report presented by the TCCP, NEC expressed displeasure that the report of the TCCP showed that nothing of value was going to be given to members, like conference bags. On the figure of N100, 000, 000 .00 requested by the TCCP, NEC directed that the TCCP should present a budget, even if it is a draft budget to the President who will go through it before approving some sum on behalf of the house and the TCCP must not exceed its budget. The President agreed that before funds are released to the TCCP, there must be a budget. He therefore instructed the TCCP to present one to him. NEC members frowned at the retention of last year’s Conference fees as proposed by the TCCP noting that there were too high. They reminded the President that when members complained of the Conference fees in 2018, the newly sworn in Paul Usoro administration stated that there will do something about it. As this present administration had promised to review conference fees as part of its campaign promises, NEC therefore mandated the TCCP to consider a downward review of the conference fees. Emmanuel Idaka, Chairman, Port Harcourt Branch pointed out that this will make members feel like their complaints are appreciated. While the President promised that the TCCP will consider a downward review of the fees, he urged NEC to bear in mind that a rich, content filled Conference is desired. He thereafter impressed on the Committee the necessity of having a budget as a budget will help to determine how much can be charged as Conference fees. Furthermore, he pointed out that with a budget, other possibilities of funding will be shown.

10.5 Report of the Section on Legal Practice (SLP) The report of the Section on Legal Practice (SLP) was presented as contained in pages 113 to115 of the NEC Bundle.

The meeting was informed that on the 3rd of December, 2018, the SLP held a one-day Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on the theme “The Role of Litigation in the 2019 Nigeria Electoral Process”, which was well attended.

Among other activities of the SLP, NEC was further informed that the Section’s Annual Conference will hold on the 7th and 8th day of May, 2019 in Akure, Ondo State, on the theme, “Value-added Legal Practice”, and the Governor of Ondo State, Past NBA President, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN has kindly agreed to host members.

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Mrs. Enobong Akpan, Chairman, Uyo Branch moved the motion for adoption of the report for discussion and the said motion was seconded by Matthew Akpan, Chairman, Eket Branch.

10.6 Report of the Transition Committee The Transition Committee is chaired by Offiong Offiong, SAN. In his absence, the report was presented by the General Secretary, J. G. Taidi, who is himself a member of the Committee. He called for discussions on the report as contained on pages 116-209 of the NEC Bundle.

The motion to adopt the report for discussion was moved by the Chairman, SLP and seconded by Caroline AituajeIbharuneafe, the NEC Rep, NBA Ikeja Branch.

11.0 RULE OF LAW AND RELATED MATTERS/STATE OF THE NATION

➢ Victor Laima, Chair, Gombe Branch, decried the treatment meted out to lawyers when they go to see their clients in detention facilities in Gombe. He cited the sad scenario where due to an altercation between a lawyer and the prison authorities, a rule was imposed in the Prisons which make lawyers wait for over an hour to see their clients, whereas other non-lawyer visitors are not so treated. He urged the NBA leadership to kindly do something about the issue.The President asked the Chairman of Gombe Branch to write him a formal letter on the issue so it will be speedily addressed.

➢ He also informed the meeting that the young lawyer from Gombe State who won a Kia car at the last 2018 NBA AGC raffle draw was yet to receive the car, almost a year after. Members of NEC frowned at this embarrassing state of affairs and directed the President to do all within his power to ensure that the young lawyer received the car he won.

➢ Pascal Ugwuanyi, Esq, Chairman, Nnewi Branch spoke on the issue of legal fees and charges collected by lawyers for drafting conveyancing agreements. He urged the NBA President to look into the matter of the fees charged for drafting conveyancing agreements and other like documents. He stated that this has become necessary owing to the fact that clients now prefer to offer ridiculously low sums to lawyers as fees for drafting conveyancing agreements, irrespective of the value of the property being transferred, and most lawyers collect these ridiculous sums out of fear that the said clients might take the business elsewhere and they may end up losing the client. He suggested a standardized fee and a sort of clearing house to ensure compliance with the declaration/directive. He maintained that other professional bodies have such policies, standardizing the fees charged, but not lawyers. The President promised to look into the issue. 31 | P a g e

➢ OziomaIzuora, Esq, NEC Rep, Abuja Branch urged the leadership of the NBA to make the NBA Secretariat more handicap friendly for physically challenged and aged colleagues who may find it difficult to use the steps.

She also spoke on the persisting problem of the two factions in the NBA Abuja Branch and called on the President to look into the issue and proffer a permanent solution to it.

Bulem Okoye, Nec Rep, Aguata branch recommended that the appropriate position that should be taken is that the two warring factions be disbanded and a new election should be conducted for the Branch.

➢ Mr. Thompson Akinyemi, Secretary, Ondo Branch spoke on the persistent police brutality and disrespect of lawyers which has compelled members of the public to disrespect lawyers too. He pointed out that even the President of the nation has no respect for lawyers. He maintained that something has to be done about it and fast too. He also urged the NBA President to call on the executive arm to respect the rule of law and lawyers, because,if they do, the society will too.

➢ M. D. Aliyu,Esq, Chairman, Ijebu-Ode Branch stated that lawyers in his Branch were experiencing severe difficulties with execution of judgments as the Police have turned such executions into a money-making business. The Police in Ijebu-Ode keep asking for a percentage of the judgment sum and also insist on writing to the Chief Judge to confirm the authenticity of the judgment and this could take months. He stated that the situation had become so tedious that lawyers in Ijebu-Ode are considering the use of civil defence officers to execute judgments.

The NBA President asked him to send him a written report so he could follow up on the issue.

➢ S. K. Shehu, Chairman, Lafia Branch notified the meeting that since November 2018, Lafia and Nassarawa Branches have been on strike. He stated that the matter had been taken to court but nothing had come out of it and the state of affairs has made it difficult for members to pay their BPF as they are barely surviving.

The President sympathized with the lawyers in those jurisdictions. He added that the scenario was the same in Kogi State where courts have been closed for over a year. The Chairman of Lafia Branch was asked to write a formal

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letter to the NBA President formally notifying him of the issue so he could work for a resolution.

➢ Baba Kura Kaka, NEC Rep, Maiduguri Branch, asked to know how the funds contained in the North East account was disbursed to lawyers and the modalities followed as some lawyers did not receive any support funds. He also pointed out that there was no co-opted NEC Rep from the North East in NEC.

In response, the NBA President stated in regard to the modalities for payment of lawyers, that there was in place a North East Committee set up by the last administration before he took overand the said committee had made recommendations that certain persons be paid support funds and his administration upon taking over, simply followed the recommendations of that committee since NBA administrationis a continuum.

For co-opted NEC members, the President maintained that he ran an inclusive government and made certain that at least one (1) SAN from each of the 36 States was appointed as co-opted NEC member, except for 3 States who do not have SANS. For these 3 States, the President stated that he made sure that he personally called on the Attorney-Generals of those States to be co-opted NEC members.

➢ Ralph Monye, NEC Rep, Jos Branch reminded the President about the report on the CJN issue which he moved forward and promised will be discussed. He pointed out that it would seem as if that issue has been forgotten.

Upon this reminder, the NBA President informed the house that despite the best efforts of the 3 man committee set up by the NEC and made up of Past Presidents Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, A. B. Mahmoud, SAN and himself, there was no shifting of ground by the executive arm. He however summarized that the NBA has done what it ought to do by her statements that were released earlier and whichmade known her stand on the matter.He reiterated that the NBA stands by itspositions, despite the refusal of the executive to do right.

➢ TonyeSipoto-Pepple, Secretary, Port Harcourt Branch, prayed that the expiry date be removed from the NBA stamps as lawyers usually have left over stamps from the years past which can no longer be used in the new year. He maintained that if the expiry date on the stamps is to ensure that members pay their BPF, then the system could be structured in such a way that where any member reapplies for fresh stamps, he must show evidence of payment of BPF before fresh stamps are reissued to him. In this way, both the NBA Secretariat and members of the NBA are not shortchanged. 33 | P a g e

The President asked him to send in his proposals on the issue and it will be considered.

➢ Damian O. Nsoike, Chairman, Owerri Branch, spoke on the debt incurred by the past administration of the NBA. He stated that it was worrisome and his branch is very bitter about the debt load. He stressed that no member of the past administration has accounted to the NBA or explained how they led the Association to that debt level. He urged NEC to call them back to explain how they spent the funds of the Association.

In response, the NBA President stated that the issue is not how the funds were spent as the last administration did pass down an account showing how the funds were spent; the issue is what they spent the funds on and whether they ought to have spent funds they did not have on what they did. That he said was a different matter altogether. He however maintained that the NBA having found herself in this scenario, must forge ahead and not expend energy on probing the past administration. He advised that it was best to focus on working to make sure that unjustifiedspending of the Association’s funds does not happen again.

➢ NEC prayed that the issue of the proper calculation of lawyers’ year of call should be revisited as it seemed unfair that several members of the Bar were being denied stamps based on the fact that they paid less than the required sum as the correct BPF fees for their year of call, whereas they paid the correct sum for their year of call by the lay man’s computation of years. The NBA President stated that he had held talks with the Supreme Court and no resolution had yet been reached on the issue. He promised to keep on at it until a resolution is arrived at.

➢ Members complained that they were having issues paying their BPF as Access Bank stated that their portal is ‘down’. They called on the NBA President to speedily do something about it as the deadline for payment of BPF was fast approaching. The President promised to take up the issue with the Bank.

12.0 ANY OTHER BUSINESS

12.1 The President presented the tentative dates for future NEC meetings till the end of the present administration.

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12.2 The President called for One (1) minute silence to be observed for the souls of the former Chairman of Maiduguri Branch, HussainiHala and Mr. OlumuyiwaOlowokure, Esq of Kaduna Branch as they had passed on.

He also called for prayers for the safety and quick release of the immediate past Chairman of Jalingo Branch, Mr. Joel Ubandoma who was recently abducted, especially as he is hypertensive. The President decried the state of insecurity in the nation. He maintained that Government must make sure that perpetrators are brought to book.

12.3 New members of NEC were urged to come forward for introduction.

13.0 ADJOURNMENT The motion for adjournment of the meeting was moved by AGM Bello, Esq. NEC Rep, Gombe Branch and seconded by John Oluwole Akintayo, the Chairman, Ibadan Branch.

14.0 CLOSING Closing prayer was said by Mallam Sule, Esq and the meeting came to a close at about 6:44 pm.

………………………… ……..……………………………… PAUL USORO, SAN JONATHAN GUNU TAIDI, ESQ PRESIDENT GENERAL SECRETARY

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