The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on Friday condemned the appointment of an ex-convict as a Grand Patron of its Garki branch in Abuja.
In a statement signed by NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the association described the naming of Abdulrasheed Maina, convicted for looting over N2 billion in pension funds, as “disdainful” and said it undermines the legal profession and Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
The NBA announced it will commence disciplinary proceedings against NBA Garki Branch Chairman, Mr. Bamidele Ojo, who made the appointment. The association demanded the immediate withdrawal of Maina’s appointment and warned that any action undermining NBA’s integrity, accountability, or respect for the judiciary would attract firm sanctions.
The statement read in part: “The purported appointment of Abdulrasheed Maina as Grand Patron of NBA Garki Branch not only paints the legal profession in a bad light but also mocks the government’s anti-corruption efforts. The Chairman’s comments on Maina’s pending Supreme Court appeal are equally reprehensible. While NBA respects the right to appeal, it will not comment or appear to influence public opinion in favour of any litigant.”
The NBA emphasized that condoning corruption or using the Bar’s platform to sway public opinion on sub judice matters is a grave violation of professional ethics. It directed Chairman Ojo to immediately withdraw the appointment and cease issuing statements on Maina’s behalf. “The NBA strongly disclaims this appointment and condemns actions that compromise the integrity, accountability, and public confidence in the legal profession,” the statement added.
The statement recalled Maina’s conviction by the Federal High Court, Abuja, on November 8, 2021, for money laundering. Justice Okon Abang sentenced him to eight years’ imprisonment and ordered the forfeiture of N2.1 billion, $223,396.30, two Abuja properties, and two vehicles, including a bulletproof car and a BMW 5 Series. Maina was recently released after completing his prison term.
Despite his release, Maina held a press briefing on Thursday wearing an NBA muffler identifying him as a Grand Patron, prompting the NBA’s swift response.
Elijah Adeyemi
