SUNTV Global Channel | National News
Nigeria’s Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has come under criticism following allegations that he attempted to influence the forthcoming Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) national elections through proposed changes to the electoral process.
According to documents that have surfaced publicly, Fagbemi endorsed recommendations from a peace committee led by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) aimed at resolving the leadership crisis within the NBA. The recommendations include postponing the association’s elections, introducing the compulsory use of the National Identity Number (NIN) for voter verification and establishing an Independent Electoral Oversight and Audit Committee.
Supporters of the peace initiative say the proposals are intended to restore confidence in the electoral process and address disputes that have led to ongoing litigation.
However, the recommendations have sparked strong opposition from some senior lawyers, who argue that the Attorney-General lacks the legal authority to direct the affairs of the Nigerian Bar Association, an independent professional body.
Human rights lawyer and former chairman of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, accused the Attorney-General of attempting to interfere in the association’s internal affairs. He questioned the legal basis for the proposed directives, including the mandatory use of NIN for the election and the suggested postponement of the polls.
Odinkalu also argued that, since legal proceedings concerning the NBA elections remain before the Court of Appeal, any proposals by the Attorney-General should be treated as recommendations rather than binding directives.
The controversy has generated widespread debate within Nigeria’s legal community, with concerns being raised over the independence of the Nigerian Bar Association and the future credibility of its electoral process.
As of the time of filing this report, the NBA has not announced any final decision regarding the proposed postponement of its elections or the implementation of the recommendations.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor the situation and provide verified updates as more information becomes available.
