By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka in Abuja
The Chairman of the Nyanya/Karu Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, Barr. Alex Edim, has faulted the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, over an alleged directive to suspend the NBA national election.
Edim, who spoke to journalists on Tuesday in his Chambers in Abuja, described the move as illegal and lacking in jurisdiction. He said the NBA is an independent body recognised by law and does not fall under any ministry, agency, or parastatal under the AGF’s supervision.
According to him, the AGF is “just an ordinary member like every other lawyer” and must abide by the association’s constitution.
“The SGF lacks the requisite powers or jurisdiction or authority to so do. The NBA is an independent association, recognized by law,” he stated.
Edim added that the NBA does not take directives from the Ministry of Justice on its internal elections.
“The NBA does not fall under any of the Ministries, agencies or parastatals under the SGF’s office,” he said.
The branch chairman warned that stakeholders at the Bar are already considering disciplinary action against the Minister.
“We the stakeholders are considering the appropriate disciplinary measure, based on that pronouncement, if he doesn’t withdraw it,” he declared.
He gave Fagbemi 24 hours to withdraw the directive or face consequences.
“If he fails to withdraw the order within 24 hours, the stakeholders may be impelled to initiate a process for proper disciplinary action,” Edim threatened.
He further said the AGF should be made to explain the source of his authority.
“The stakeholders may be forced to initiate a process for him to explain where he derives such powers from,” he concluded.
