AN ADDRESS PRESENTED BY THE CHAIRMAN, NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION PORT HARCOURT BRANCH, MRS. CORDELIA UWUMA EKE, ON BEHALF OF THE EIGHT BRANCHES OF THE NBA IN RIVERS STATE, AT THE OPENING OF THE 2025/2026 LEGAL YEAR SESSION HELD ON THE 17TH OF OCTOBER, 2025.
PROTOCOLS
PREAMBLE
The Opening of the Legal Year remains a significant event in the calendar of the Judiciary, marking the commencement of a new judicial year. It provides an opportunity for members of the Bench and Bar, government representatives, and stakeholders to reflect on developments within the legal system, to celebrate the enduring role of the Judiciary in promoting justice and integrity, and to chart the course for the year ahead.
This occasion also serves as a platform for dialogue on issues affecting the legal profession and the administration of justice. It reminds us of our shared responsibility to strengthen the rule of law, uphold professional ethics, and promote public confidence in the justice system.
As we begin this new legal year, it is incumbent upon us to take stock of our collective progress, assess our performance, and draw valuable lessons from the experiences of the past year. Through honest reflection and renewed commitment, we can better serve the cause of justice and ensure that our profession continues to embody the principles of independence, integrity, and excellence. May this Legal Year inspire us all to work with greater dedication and unity in advancing the ideals of justice and the rule of law.
REFLECTIONS ON THE LAST LEGAL YEAR
The 2024/2025 Legal Year began with the usual sense of optimism and promise, marked by the ceremony, enthusiasm, and high expectations that traditionally accompany this important occasion. As the year progressed, however, certain developments posed significant challenges to governance and the rule of law in Rivers State.
Disruption of democratic governance
The declaration of a State of Emergency, along with the suspension of the elected Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the State House of Assembly, ushered in a period of considerable uncertainty. The subsequent appointment of a Sole Administrator to oversee the affairs of the State further altered the dynamics of democratic governance and tested the resilience of our institutions. This period, spanning from March 18th to September 17th, 2025, may be aptly remembered as one of the most challenging times in the State’s recent history — a time when the principles of democracy and the rule of law were placed under severe strain. These months could be termed “the dark months of 2025”
While it may be difficult to quantify the full impact of these events, they undoubtedly left lasting impressions on the State and the legal profession. As members of the legal profession, it is incumbent upon us to reflect on these experiences, to draw lessons from them, and to renew our collective commitment to the preservation of justice, constitutionalism, and the rule of law. During this period, numerous suits were instituted in various courts — both within the State and at the Federal level — challenging the declaration of the State of Emergency in Rivers State. Many of these cases remain pending. These proceedings demanded considerable judicial time and attention, often diverting focus from the regular court docket. Judicial resources that would ordinarily have been devoted to ongoing cases had to be redirected to address these urgent and sensitive matters, inevitably affecting the overall pace of justice delivery during that time.
This situation also had notable economic implications for the legal community. For some practitioners, the surge in litigation brought increased professional engagement and, admittedly, greater financial reward. Yet no measure of financial benefit could compensate for the anxiety, uncertainty, and deep sense of helplessness that pervaded the legal profession and the wider public during those difficult months.
Equally distressing were the institutional disruptions that occurred within certain key offices. In particular, within the Ministry of Justice, the Solicitor-General was, at one point, directed to report to an aide of the Sole Administrator designated as the Senior Special Adviser on Legal Matters. This officer, alongside others, assumed functions ordinarily reserved for the Honourable Attorney-General — including issuing directives to the Solicitor-General, directors within the Ministry, and, in some instances, even extending such directives to members of the Judiciary. Such actions risked blurring the established lines of authority that safeguard the independence of our legal institutions.
However, no degree of administrative dexterity could substitute for the lawful authority of the Attorney-General. Statutory powers such as the issuance of fiats, the granting of consent for land transactions, and the entering of nolle prosequi remained beyond delegation. Despite concerted efforts to navigate these constraints, the law stood firm — a reassuring reminder that legal safeguards, when respected, remain the last bastion of institutional stability.
These developments highlight the urgent need for stronger legislative frameworks to protect the integrity of our institutions and ensure that they remain resilient under all circumstances. At such times, the role of the Legislature becomes even more crucial — as the custodian of institutional balance and the backbone of democratic governance.
One regrettable consequence of this institutional gap was the accumulation of applications requiring the consent of the Attorney-General — including requests for fiats and consent — which could not be processed during that period. The ripple effects were significant: practitioners were deprived of legitimate income, the State lost valuable revenue, and, most importantly, justice was delayed for many citizens. Business activities dependent on valid land documentation were also adversely affected.
In light of these realities, may I most respectfully urge His Excellency, the Governor, to expedite the appointment of an Honourable Attorney-General for the State. The duties attached to that office are statutory and cannot be fully discharged by the Solicitor-General. A prompt appointment will help restore institutional equilibrium and ensure that the wheels of justice continue to turn smoothly once more, for the benefit of all.
Response of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
In the face of the developments that unfolded during the period under review, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) did not stand aloof. The Association rose to the occasion and confronted the challenges arising from the declaration of a State of Emergency and the appointment of a Sole Administrator with courage and resolve.
At the national level, the NBA, under the leadership of its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, issued a press statement condemning the declaration of the State of Emergency, the suspension of the elected Governor, and the appointment of a Sole Administrator for Rivers State. The President also convened a press conference to further articulate the Association’s position and reaffirm its unwavering commitment to constitutional governance and the Rule of Law.
Within Rivers State, the eight branches of the NBA aligned with the position of the national body and collectively condemned the dismantling of democratic institutions within the State. The principled stance taken by the Branch Chairmen was not without cost. One of us, in particular, faced administrative disciplinary measures and threats, following the issuance of an official statement — made in her capacity as Branch Chairman — decrying the imposition of the State of Emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions. At its meeting in Ilorin, Kwara State, the National Executive Committee of the NBA formally commended the Chairmen of the eight branches in Rivers State for their steadfastness and courage in defending democratic values
As a further mark of protest, the NBA National Executive Committee took the courageous decision to relocate the Association’s Annual General Conference from Rivers State to another location. This decision, came with considerable financial implications for members of the profession in Rivers State, who had to travel outside the State to attend the Conference, thereby incurring additional costs and logistical burdens. The State’s branches collectively fielded close to 2,500 delegates at the Annual General Conference in Enugu, with the Port Harcourt Branch alone accounting for about 1,400 delegates. Despite the strain on their resources, the branches made significant sacrifices to support their members through transportation and accommodation assistance. This spirit of solidarity and resilience stands as a testament to the unity and courage of lawyers in Rivers State in the face of injustice.
The decision — to relocate the Conference — was far more than a logistical adjustment. It was a bold and symbolic declaration of the Bar’s unwavering commitment to the defence of democracy and the Rule of Law. Through it, the NBA sent a clear message that the legal profession will neither lend legitimacy to unconstitutional actions nor remain silent in the face of executive excesses. It reaffirmed the Bar’s historic role as the conscience of the nation — a profession that must always stand firmly on the side of justice, accountability, and the protection of democratic institutions.
Ultimately, the experience of those difficult months left a lasting imprint on us all — the Bar, the Bench, the political class, and indeed the people of Rivers State. Each of us bore a measure of loss. It is hoped that through it all, we have been reminded of the enduring truth that the strength of our democracy lies in our collective resolve to uphold the Rule of Law, no matter the cost.
Defence of the Judiciary
During the period under review, the Nigerian Bar Association in Rivers State remained steadfast in its commitment to defend the integrity and independence of the Judiciary.
Welfare of Judicial Officers
The Bar has consistently advocated for the improved welfare of Judicial Officers, and we are pleased to acknowledge the positive response of His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State, to some of these concerns. Notably, additional housing units were provided for Judicial Officers, and newly appointed Magistrates were promptly assigned official vehicles and residences to support the effective discharge of their duties.
We also commend His Excellency for the payment of outstanding benefits to Magistrates who were previously suspended and have since been reinstated. These steps demonstrate genuine commitment to the wellbeing of the Judiciary and to the efficient administration of justice.
Renovation of Judicial Facilities
Following our remarks at the last Legal Year ceremony on the poor state of some courts outside the Port Harcourt Judicial Division, we are encouraged that several Local Government Chairmen responded by initiating renovation works within their jurisdictions. We particularly appreciate the efforts of the former Chairman of Etche Local Government Area for his proactive support — a demonstration of responsible leadership at the grassroots level.
We urge other Local Government Chairmen to emulate these commendable efforts, as improved court infrastructure enhances both access to and delivery of justice for the people. Furthermore, we call on Local Government authorities to exercise accountability in their governance, in keeping with the financial autonomy they now enjoy. We also encourage them to engage qualified Legal Officers within their Secretariats to ensure sound legal guidance and prevent avoidable administrative errors.
Outstanding Issues
Beyond the matters already highlighted, a number of important concerns and appeals made by the Bar in previous years still remain unresolved. These issues continue to weigh heavily on our collective efforts to serve the cause of justice and to strengthen the legal profession in Rivers State.
Support to NBA Branches
Our branches remain the heartbeat of the Nigerian Bar Association in the State — the first point of contact for most of our members and the true engine room of professional development and civic engagement. Yet, many of them continue to struggle with inadequate infrastructure and logistics.
The NBA Port Harcourt Branch House — which has become the shared home of all eight branches for many of our collective activities — now stands in urgent need of renovation and upgrade. Several other branches have been unable to complete their Secretariat projects due to the prohibitive cost of building materials.
We therefore renew our humble appeal to His Excellency, the Governor, to kindly assist in upgrading our branch facilities and in providing functional buses for our branches. The existing buses have served far beyond their capacity; for instance, the Port Harcourt Branch, with over 8,000 members, operates only two buses that now break down frequently. These vehicles are not mere conveniences — they are essential tools that support our work, outreach, and service to the community.
Your Excellency, our members look up to you not only as the Chief Executive of our State but also as a partner in the quest for justice and institutional excellence. We trust that your usual magnanimity and sensitivity to the needs of the legal community will once again find expression in this regard.
Sponsorship of Lawyers to the NBA Annual General Conference
We sincerely acknowledge and appreciate the generous support that the State Government extended to the NBA National during the last Annual General Conference. However, the branches within Rivers State received no direct support for their members, who had to bear the full burden of travel, accommodation, and welfare costs. We remain confident that His Excellency, known for fairness and inclusiveness, will not leave his own behind. We therefore renew our appeal for assistance to our branches to enable more members to participate fully in future conferences, and to help us recover from the heavy financial strain of the last one.
Your Excellency, it gives us immense pride to announce that the Nigerian Bar Association has once again chosen Rivers State as the venue for its 2026 Annual General Conference — a testament to our State’s enduring leadership in the legal profession. We are deeply honoured by this trust and look forward to working hand in hand with the State Government to ensure that the Conference becomes a landmark success. We only ask that our branches be carried along in the planning and execution of this historic event, so that together we can showcase the resilience, hospitality, and excellence for which Rivers State and its legal community are renowned.
Law Officers’ Welfare
Your Excellency, we continue to receive numerous complaints from our colleagues in the Public Service, particularly those in the State Ministry of Justice, concerning the non-payment of statutory allowances and grants.
It bears emphasizing that Law Officers are not ordinary civil servants. By the nature of their professional calling, they are bound by a strict code of appearance, dignity, and decorum. It was in recognition of this that the Robing Allowance was instituted — to enable them maintain the professional standard expected of those who represent the State in legal matters.
In the same vein, the Car Grant, last paid in 2008, is not a luxury but a necessary provision that enhances both the prestige of the Law Officers and the Office of the Honourable Attorney-General It is also a form of security for the State Prosecutors, who should not be jumping buses with those they are prosecuting or their friends. In years past, Government Lawyers were the pride of the Bar — always well turned out, projecting the image of a disciplined, efficient, and dignified public service. Regrettably, that is not the case today.
We therefore most respectfully appeal to Your Excellency to kindly approve the payment of these outstanding allowances and grants. Such a gesture will not only restore morale but also reinvigorate the productivity and professional pride of our colleagues in public service.
Accommodation and Vehicles for Magistrates and Customary Court Chairmen
Your Excellency, it will be recalled that the previous administration promised to provide residential quarters for Magistrates, similar to the laudable housing scheme extended to Judges. This promise, highlighted in the last Legal Year, remains unfulfilled. Permit me to illustrate the urgency of this matter with a rather distressing incident: a retired Chief Magistrate was recently sued for recovery of premises due to unpaid rent. It took the intervention of his former colleagues to prevent the embarrassment of a public trial, and they had to negotiate an informal payment arrangement on his behalf, popularly known as PSS. Such indignity should never befall those who have served our justice system faithfully. A secure housing arrangement or a housing grant would not only spare them such indignities but also give Magistrates the peace of mind and confidence to discharge their duties without fear or distraction — both in service and in retirement.We are also aware that many senior Magistrates continue to struggle with old and unserviceable vehicles, even as their work demands constant mobility. We therefore humbly appeal to Your Excellency to consider the replacement of these vehicles as part of the ongoing reforms in the justice sector.
In the same spirit, we draw attention to the plight of Customary Court Chairmen and Members. While newly appointed officers have been provided with brand new vehicles, many of their predecessors still operate without any official means of transportation. We trust that Your Excellency, in your well-known fairness and magnanimity, will extend the same gesture to them.
Such measures, though simple, go a long way in restoring dignity, boosting morale, and ensuring that our judicial officers — at every level — can carry out their solemn duties with the honour and stability that justice demands.
CURRENT CHALLENGES IN THE JUSTICE SECTOR
Your Excellency, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, despite the progress made in the administration of justice, several challenges continue to impede effective service delivery across our Judicial Divisions and Justice Sector. These persistent issues affect not only the smooth dispensation of justice but also the confidence of the people in our judicial system.
Key among these challenges are:
1. Dilapidated Court Facilities: Many courtrooms remain in a state of disrepair, with damaged furnishings and lack of electricity. For instance, electrical fittings in the Degema Division were vandalized, leaving the courts non-functional.
2. Poor Infrastructure and Environment: Several courts outside Port Harcourt operate in bushy surroundings without proper parking spaces, compromising both safety and accessibility.
3. Leaking Roofs: Courtrooms in Omoku and Bori Divisions are plagued by leaking roofs — proceedings often grind to a halt whenever it rains, severely disrupting judicial work.
4. Lack of Basic Amenities: In places like Etche and Degema, the absence of water supply and restrooms forces lawyers and litigants to endure undignified conditions, often resorting to nearby bushes to help themselves.
5. Acute Staff Shortage: The Judiciary faces a significant shortfall in administrative and support personnel, particularly bailiffs, leading to delays and inefficiency. We respectfully urge consideration for the conversion of diligent contract staff to permanent positions, leveraging their experience before fresh recruitment.
6. Lack of Security personnel: The lack of adequate security has led to vandalization of court properties, including at Okrika High Court and Magistrate Court, where electrical installations and air conditioners were stolen.
7. Relocation of Courts: Relocation of Courts to their various Jurisdictions such as Okehi and Degema High Courts, has become necessary to reduce the financial burden on litigants who must currently travel long distances to Port Harcourt.
8. Inadequate Customary Court Personnel: There remains an urgent need to appoint more Customary Court Chairmen and Members in Degema, Egwi, Omuma, and Umuaturu Districts to ensure access to justice at the grassroots.
At this juncture, we must sincerely commend His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State, and the State Government for the continued financial support to the Judiciary. We respectfully urge that this commitment be further strengthened in the new Legal Year to ensure the smooth and efficient delivery of justice. We also commend the Government for its ongoing special building projects for the Judiciary, and urge that, in executing these projects, the specific needs of the Judiciary be fully considered through proper consultation. It is our hope, with respect, that the judiciary would be adequately funded so that issues such as lack of funds for routine maintenance of courtrooms, insufficient data for e-filing systems, and shortages of essential secretarial materials will no longer feature in our discussions. Given the current filing fees within this jurisdiction, both lawyers and litigants reasonably expect efficient and well-equipped court services. Funding, therefore, must never be the obstacle to justice.
Your Excellency, we must also draw attention to the congested condition of the High Court Complex in Port Harcourt and the urgent need for expansion. We therefore appeal to the State Government that upon the relocation of the Federal High Court to its new complex at Forces Avenue, the premises presently occupied by them be allocated to the State Judiciary
Administration of Criminal Justice
We commend all stakeholders in the Criminal Justice Sector — the Police, Correctional Service, Legal Aid Council, National Human Rights Commission, Office of the Honourable Attorney-General, FIDA, and other partners — for their remarkable an improved performance last year in terms of collaboration and synergy. The Rivers State Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) which coordinates these stakeholders, continues to distinguish itself, earning national recognition for its proactive strides. Its training programs for staff across agencies have been equally commendable. However, this Committee is in dire need of funding and infrastructural expansion to sustain its impact. Adequate support will undoubtedly trigger a new wave of efficiency and innovation within the Criminal Justice Sector — a true revolution for justice in our State.
We also want to draw attention to the fact that the Laws of Rivers State are in dire need of review and new legislation should be made available for public access. We respectfully urge the State Government and the House of Assembly to facilitate this, to aid access to justice.
We respectfully call on the State Government to Constitute the Prerogative of Mercy Committee to ease the congestion in the Port Harcourt Correctional Centre. We also respectfully request both the Executive and the Judiciary to revive the State Justice Sector Reform Committee, and to include representatives of the Bar in its composition, to ensure a holistic and enduring rejuvenation of the administration of justice in Rivers State.
PROJECTIONS FOR THE FUTURE
As we look ahead, the Bar envisions a future of closer collaboration and mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench, particularly in matters relating to judicial appointments. We firmly believe that the Bar must be genuinely consulted in the process of appointing Judicial Officers, as provided by established tradition and practice. Our input is not merely procedural — it is essential to ensuring that those entrusted with the solemn duty of dispensing justice embody integrity, competence, and fairness.
Regrettably, the appointments of Magistrates and Customary Court Chairmen are often made without any reference to the Bar. Indeed, we only become aware of the names of the appointees on the day of their swearing-in. Already, there have been concerns raised regarding the suitability of some of them. We kindly request that this practice be changed and the Bar consulted for their comments before appointment.
However, we must observe with respect to appointment of Judges, that although the Bar was invited to comment on nominees, it was disheartening to observe that our observations — including credible reports of integrity concerns — were disregarded, and some of such individuals were still appointed for obvious reasons. This undermines the credibility of the appointment process and erodes public confidence in the Judiciary. It also emboldens unprofessional conduct among certain officers who, having bypassed proper scrutiny, proceed to discharge their duties with impunity and condescension toward members of the Bar. The Judiciary thrives on integrity and respect for due process. We therefore appeal for a return to true consultation and transparency in future appointments. The Bar stands ready to partner with the Judiciary and the Government to uphold the highest standards in the selection of those who will serve as the face of justice in our State.
In addition, the Bar looks to:
1. The appointment of additional Judges, Magistrates, and Customary Court Members, to strengthen our courts and ease the burden of case congestion;
2. Full computerization of the Courts, including facilities for electronic recording of proceedings, to enhance efficiency and transparency;
3. Employment of more competent and hardworking Lawyers into the State Civil Service, particularly within the Ministry of Justice and other legal departments, to ensure that government decisions and actions are guided by sound legal counsel; amongst others
INNOVATIONS AT THE BAR
Remuneration Order 2023
We are pleased to announce that the Nigerian Bar Association in Rivers State is now set to implement the Remuneration Order 2023, which prescribes the minimum scale of professional fees for legal services rendered by lawyers in the State.
This Order takes effect from this Legal Year and is designed to enhance the income, welfare, and professional dignity of legal practitioners, ensuring fair compensation for their work and improved standards of living across the Bar.
We earnestly seek the support and cooperation of the State Government and its agencies in enforcing and promoting compliance with this Order, and we shall in due course make formal representations to both the Executive and the House of Assembly for their legislative and institutional backing.
To our learned colleagues, let it be clearly understood that charging below the prescribed minimum fees constitutes professional misconduct, except where such matters are duly registered as pro bono. Any violations reported to the Branches will attract appropriate disciplinary action.
This initiative marks a new chapter in strengthening the integrity, professionalism, and economic stability of the Bar in Rivers State.
Anti-Corruption Committee
The NBA has also, in a bid to ensure accountability and integrity in its affairs, has constituted Anti-Corruption Committees in all Branches of the NBA.
Dress Code For Lawyers
Furthermore, in a bid to restore decency and decorum in the dressing of Lawyers, the NBA Branches nationwide are setting up Dress-code monitoring committees by virtue of a NEC Resolution and directive to check the dressing of lawyers to the courtroom and official legal ceremonies. Any dressing that contravenes our rules will be viewed as conduct unbecoming of a legal practitioner. This is applicable with respect, to both our senior and junior colleagues. We also urge Your Lordships to support the efforts of the Bar by enforcement of the Rules and denying errant lawyers, audience in your courts. The word of wisdom remains - “if in doubt, go with black”.
ADDITIONS TO THE BAR
Within the period under review, we are happy that the Bar also celebrated the conferment of two of its members with the prestigious tank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. We congratulate them once more. We also celebrate and congratulate the new members of the profession recently called to Bar.
LOSSES
As it is said, you win some and lose some. The Bar in Rivers State suffered its own share of losses. Indeed many painful losses of our beloved colleagues. We pray that this new year comes with a new wave of good health and longevity for us all. Amen.
CONCLUSION
My Lords, distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, as we stand at the threshold of a new legal year, we do so with hearts filled with hope — hope for deeper collaboration between the Bar and the Bench; a collaboration founded on mutual respect, trust, and our unwavering commitment to justice.
We look forward to continued harmony among the three arms of Government — harmony built not on conflict, but on dialogue, respect for due process, and obedience to the rule of law. Only through this sacred partnership can we ensure peace, effective justice delivery, and a society governed by fairness and equity.
Today, we give thanks to Almighty God that the dark months of 2025 are behind us. We gather here in unity, with the full complement of the three arms of Government once again standing strong in our beloved Rivers State. And standing tall among us is our amiable, dependable, and peace-loving Governor — His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS.
Your Excellency, during those trying and turbulent days, when tempests threatened the soul of our State, you stood firm. You embodied humility, patience, and peace. You called upon our people to hold their peace in the face of provocation, and by so doing, you effectively diffused the palpable tension. That act of courage and restraint preserved the peace of Rivers State. For this, the Bar salutes you. Indeed, if it were within our power, we would not hesitate to recommend you for the Nobel Prize for peace.
We also appreciate the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the Honourable members for embracing peace in the interest of the State
Ladies and Gentlemen, as we leave here, permit me to remind us of the timeless words of George Santayana:
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
Let us not forget the dark months we have endured. For in forgetting, we risk repeating. In silence, we risk erasing the lessons that strengthen our democracy. The trials we faced must remain our compass — a constant reminder that unity, courage, and faith in justice can guide us through even the stormiest nights. Let the memory of our trials be the guardian of our freedom. Let it remind us that Rivers State is greater than any division; that our duty to justice and peace transcends every difference.
And in the immortal words of Nelson Mandela:
“Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.”
May we always find the courage to rise above fear, to defend what is right, and to serve our people with integrity and compassion.
May this new beginning usher in greater wisdom, stronger institutions, and a deeper sense of purpose for us all. May the next time we gather find us not only wiser, but better — as individuals, as a profession, and as a State.
God bless the Rivers State Judiciary.
God bless the Nigerian Bar Association.
And God bless the great people of Rivers State.
Amen.
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