A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Yomi Alliyu, has expressed strong reservations about the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association under its current President, Afam Osigwe, citing concerns over governance, neutrality, and the integrity of the Association’s electoral process.

In a statement reported by The Nigeria Lawyer, Alliyu faulted what he described as a departure from established traditions of impartial leadership within the Bar. He argued that the conduct of the current administration raises questions about fairness, particularly in the context of the forthcoming NBA elections.

Alliyu alleged that the NBA President may not be maintaining the expected neutrality in the succession process, suggesting that certain actions and public positions could be interpreted as tacit support for a particular candidate.

He further noted that references to gender considerations in the leadership discourse, at a time when only one female aspirant is in the race, may create perceptions of indirect endorsement.

The senior lawyer also raised concerns about the use of official NBA platforms and structures, alleging that actions by certain officials could be construed as giving undue advantage to specific aspirants.

In addition, he questioned the process leading to the constitution of the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA), expressing the view that due process and broader consultation should guide such appointments.

Alliyu further criticised statements allegedly attributed to the NBA leadership concerning the judiciary and members of the legal profession, cautioning against generalisations that may undermine public confidence in the justice system.

Drawing from his decades of experience within the Bar, Alliyu maintained that the NBA has historically upheld high standards of independence and procedural integrity. He urged the current leadership to adhere strictly to these principles in order to preserve the credibility of the Association.