The Rivers State Government has issued a stern warning to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), demanding an immediate refund of N300 million disbursed to the association or face legal action.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Sole Administrator, the state government dismissed the NBA’s claim that the money was an “unconditional gift” unrelated to the hosting of the 2025 NBA Annual General Conference (AGC).
Originally scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt from August 22 to 28, the NBA later relocated the AGC to Enugu, citing security concerns following the political situation in Rivers State.
However, the state government maintained that the payment was made based on a mutual agreement for Rivers to host the event, arguing that the relocation constitutes a breach of that understanding.
“The Rivers State Government’s records clearly show that the N300 million was provided with the agreement that the state would host the 2025 NBA AGC,” the statement read.
“This arrangement was made in good faith, with the belief that the conference would bring economic gains and boost business activities in Rivers State. The NBA’s decision to move the event unilaterally and keep the funds is unethical and a violation of trust.”
The government said it would pursue all legal avenues to recover the state’s resources if the money is not refunded promptly.
“We remain open to partnering with professional bodies, including the NBA, but we will not tolerate the exploitation of our people and state resources,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, several stakeholders have criticised the NBA’s position, describing its justification for retaining the funds as “irresponsible” and “unjustifiable.” They urged the legal body to restore its credibility by returning the N300 million, which they said was paid in anticipation of the economic and social benefits the conference would have brought to Rivers State.
