One of the frontrunners in the 2024 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Presidential race, Chukwuka Ikwuazom, has explained why he ordered his supporters to withdraw from the election.
He cited concerns over the integrity of the electoral process.
“It is with a heavy heart that I, Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN, announce my decision to withdraw from the 2024 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Presidential race,” Ikwuazom stated.
“This decision has not been made lightly but is necessitated by a series of alarming developments that have compromised the integrity of the electoral process.”
Ikwuazom highlighted observed irregularities since the voting began, suggesting that the results were manipulated to maintain a predetermined outcome, which consistently placed him in third position.
“Since the commencement of voting earlier today, my supporters and I have observed disturbing patterns that do not align with the actual votes cast,” he continued.
“It has become increasingly evident that the integrity of the electoral process has been compromised.
“Despite the overwhelming support from my dedicated supporters, the reported figures do not align with the true expression of our votes.”
“As a candidate committed to upholding transparency and the rule of law, I cannot in good conscience continue to participate in a compromised electoral process.
“Therefore, I am withdrawing from the presidential race effective immediately.”
Ikwuazom urged his supporters to cease all election-related activities, emphasising the need to continue striving for a bar association that embodies justice, fairness, and integrity.
“While today marks a sombre moment for our bar, let us remain resolute in our commitment to upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and integrity within our noble profession.
“Together, we must continue to strive for a bar association that is free from manipulation and true to the aspirations of its members.”
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the umbrella professional association for all lawyers admitted to the bar in Nigeria, plays a significant role in Nigerian civil society.
Established in 1933 as the first professional association for legal practitioners in the country, the NBA has grown into a powerful organization with over 120 branches nationwide.
The NBA has consistently championed legal reforms, human rights, and the independence of the judiciary.
It has been pivotal in addressing key legal and political issues in Nigeria, including the fight against military rule, the advocacy for democracy, and the promotion of legal education and standards.
Elections within the NBA are a major event in the Nigerian legal community, determining the leadership for the upcoming term.
These elections are held periodically, allowing all registered members to participate in the voting process. Positions up for election include the President, Vice President, General Secretary, and other executive committee roles.
To ensure transparency and efficiency, the NBA employs an electronic voting system. Members cast their votes online, with the process overseen by an independent electoral committee.
Before Ikwuazom’s withdrawal, the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, had issued a statement to deny speculation that President Bola Tinubu had a preferred candidate in the election.
Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, addressed the alleged misinformation in a signed statement, emphasising the president’s commitment to democratic principles and impartiality in the NBA election:
“My attention has been drawn to the news making the rounds in the social media to the effect that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has endorsed Afam Osigwe, SAN, as his preferred candidate in the ongoing Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) election.
“To buttress these lies, I was made a point of reference for confirmation. I wish to state categorically, that at no time did Mr. President give any such instruction. I completely dissociate myself from such a statement because nothing of such happened.”
Fagbemi further clarified that neither he nor President Tinubu had any discussions regarding endorsing a candidate:
“I am also in a position to confirm, and I do so, that the president neither had a discussion with the author nor did he give any such divisive instruction. I also had no such discussion with anyone,” he said.
He condemned the rumours as false and harmful, suggesting they were the work of individuals seeking to exploit the president’s popularity within the legal community:
“The news is a lie from the pit of hell being peddled about by mischief makers seeking cheap popularity to ride on the acceptance of Mr. President among lawyers.”
Fagbemi reaffirmed President Tinubu’s stance as a democrat who supports a fair electoral process and is prepared to work with whoever wins the NBA presidency:
“Mr. President is a democrat who believes in playing by the rules. He has not and will not endorse anyone as a preferred candidate in the ongoing NBA election.
“As a democrat and president of the country, he will abide by the outcome of a free and fair election. He is also ready to work with any candidate that emerges.”
