Integrity of NBA poll safeguarded by DSS and foreign observers

The Nigerian Bar Association's national election, scheduled for July 18, will have the Department of State Service and foreign observers in attendance to ensure the election's integrity. NBA President Afam Osigwe stated that the presence of these independent monitors will provide an objective report on the election process. Osigwe dismissed concerns about rigging, emphasizing that the election will be free and fair. He also clarified that he has no special interest in any of the three candidates vying to succeed him: Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, Lateef Omoyele, SAN, and Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN. The NBA president noted that a group known as 'Egbe Amofin' has been attempting to impose a particular candidate, contrary to the association's constitution. Osigwe assured that the NBA will not object if candidates step down voluntarily but will not succumb to blocking any individual's aspiration. He reiterated his commitment to a free and fair election, stating that he will not vote in the election to alleviate concerns about rigging. Osigwe urged critics to allow democracy to thrive, emphasizing that allegations of rigging are aimed at damaging the NBA's reputation. The comments come amid concerns raised by the Egbe Amofin Oodua, a forum of Yoruba lawyers, which called for the postponement of the election to implement electoral reforms. The group's chairman, Isiaka Olagunju, accused the NBA leadership of reneging on agreements reached with stakeholders on reforms, including the use of members' National Identification Number-linked phone numbers for voting. Olagunju alleged that the NBA leadership ignored an agreement to postpone the election and introduce reforms.