Nigerian Bar Association invites observers amid election controversies

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has extended invitations to international and domestic election observers to monitor its national officers' election, scheduled for July 20. This move occurs amidst significant controversy surrounding the poll, including ongoing litigation and allegations of external interference.

Invited observers include the European Union, the United States Embassy, the British High Commission, and domestic organizations like Yiaga Africa and the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG). NBA President Afam Osigwe emphasized that the invitation underscores the association's commitment to conducting a transparent, credible, free, and fair election, aligning with international best practices.

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The participation of respected international and domestic observers will further strengthen confidence in the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.

"The participation of respected international and domestic observers will further strengthen confidence in the integrity and credibility of the electoral process," Osigwe stated. The election will be conducted electronically, with accredited observers granted access to monitor proceedings from the Central Election Control Room at the NBA National Secretariat in Abuja. This control room will manage election operations, results collation, and observer accreditation.

The NBA has rejected alleged directives seeking to postpone the election, describing recent attempts at external interference as "unprecedented." The association reiterated that the election will proceed according to the NBA Constitution and Electoral Committee (ECNBA) Guidelines. The controversies began months ago, evolving from internal disagreements into multiple court cases and public disputes over the electoral process's integrity.

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unprecedented attempts at external interference