The President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Afam Osigwe, has called on members of the legal profession to protect the association from partisan influence as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to gather momentum.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Osigwe underscored the importance of preserving the NBA’s independence, noting that the association’s credibility depends on its ability to remain impartial regardless of the prevailing political climate. He maintained that lawyers have a duty to uphold justice without allowing personal or political affiliations to interfere with the responsibilities of the profession.
He explained that the NBA has earned its reputation over the years by standing firmly in defence of constitutional democracy, the rule of law and judicial independence. According to him, those values must not be compromised by political interests seeking to influence the affairs or decisions of the association.
Osigwe said the conduct of the NBA’s forthcoming leadership elections should reflect the highest standards of transparency, accountability and fairness. He stressed that members of the legal profession are expected to demonstrate exemplary leadership, adding that the association should distinguish itself from the practices commonly associated with partisan politics.
The senior lawyer warned that if the NBA allows itself to be drawn into political rivalries or becomes identified with particular political interests, it risks losing the confidence and respect it has built over several decades. He argued that the legal profession occupies a unique position in society and should always inspire trust through its commitment to integrity and ethical conduct.
Speaking further, Osigwe expressed concern about certain actions taken by some legal practitioners that appear inconsistent with the principles the association is expected to defend. He noted that there have been instances where lawyers seek judicial orders aimed at preventing individuals from participating in electoral contests, a trend he believes raises important questions about the profession’s commitment to democratic ideals.
According to him, although every citizen has the constitutional right to approach the courts, members of the legal profession must exercise that privilege responsibly and ensure that legal processes are not perceived as instruments for achieving political objectives. He urged lawyers to remain guided by justice, fairness and the provisions of the law rather than by partisan considerations.
Osigwe reaffirmed that the NBA would continue to play its traditional role as an independent voice in the defence of democracy, constitutional governance and the rights of Nigerians. He added that preserving the association’s neutrality is essential if it is to continue speaking truthfully and objectively on issues affecting the judiciary and the country at large.
He further encouraged legal practitioners to remain united in protecting the image of the profession by conducting themselves with honesty, discipline and professionalism. He said every decision made by the association should reinforce public confidence in the legal system and demonstrate that lawyers remain committed to fairness and justice above every other interest.
The NBA president concluded by urging members to ensure that the association’s internal affairs, especially its elections, are managed with integrity and transparency. He said doing so would strengthen the NBA’s standing as a respected institution and reaffirm its commitment to the rule of law as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
