Rivers State Government Denounces NBA’s Relocation of 2025 Conference, Demands Refund of N300 Million

The Rivers State Government has strongly opposed the Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) decision to relocate its 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) from Port Harcourt to Enugu, labeling the move as a breach of trust and unethical conduct.

In an official statement issued by Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Assistant on Media, the state government rejected the NBA’s claim that the N300 million it received from Rivers was merely a “gift” and not connected to hosting rights for the conference.

“For clarity, the Rivers State Government’s records show that the payment of ?300 million to the NBA was made with the mutual understanding that Rivers State would host the 2025 edition of the NBA AGC,” the statement said.

The government expressed disappointment over the NBA’s “unilateral decision” to move the high-profile legal event without due consultation, emphasizing that the agreement was made in good faith, and aimed at bringing economic benefits to local businesses and residents.

The state further warned that failure by the NBA to refund the N300 million would result in legal action to recover the funds, which the government described as the property of the people of Rivers State.

While reaffirming its openness to future collaborations with professional bodies, the government made it clear that it would not tolerate what it called the “exploitation” of the state or its people.

The NBA has yet to respond to the Rivers State Government’s latest rejoinder.