The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has weighed in on the debate surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s legitimacy. In a bold statement, the NBA emphasized that President Tinubu’s position remains unquestionably valid until any legal challenge to his presidency is resolved.
“As of today, President Bola Tinubu is the sole President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,” the association firmly declared.
Addressing reporters during the presentation of the 63rd annual NBA conference communique in Abuja, NBA President Mr. Yakubu Maikyau dismissed assertions that Tinubu’s presidency was illegal until the pending petitions challenging his victory were adjudicated.
The controversy surrounding President Tinubu’s recent visit to the Presidential Villa was also addressed by Maikyau, who asserted that the visit adhered to the constitution.
“President Tinubu’s presence at the Presidential Villa was entirely in line with our constitutional provisions and relevant laws established by the National Assembly. Our legal framework, including the Electoral Act and the Evidence Act, support the legitimacy of his election. It is wrong and misleading to label his government as illegal simply because an election is under dispute,” Maikyau stated.
The NBA has called upon both federal and state governments to focus their efforts on critical areas such as infrastructure development, enhanced power generation, increased agricultural productivity, and the creation of rural employment opportunities. The association also stressed the importance of prioritizing youth employment through education and entrepreneurship training.
In the communique read by Maikyau, the NBA highlighted the need for Nigeria to adapt to the changing economic landscape driven by climate change concerns. It urged policymakers to formulate and implement forward-looking policies that would benefit not only the present but also future generations.
The NBA also underscored the significance of a robust and independent judiciary, recommending an upward review of judicial remuneration. Additionally, the association called for the separation of judicial remuneration from the public sector and the creation of an independent salary scale for judicial officers, with a focus on improving the conditions of magistrates and lower court judges.
Furthermore, the NBA urged the government to provide financial support to pro bono schemes in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance access to justice.
Regarding security, the conference recommended practical strategies, including community involvement in policing, youth engagement through job creation, and comprehensive police reforms. It called on citizens to actively contribute to addressing insecurity by being vigilant and speaking up, while also encouraging the legal community to explore ways to support the fight against insecurity.
In conclusion, the NBA highlighted the need for legislative intervention to address gaps in the Armed Forces Act and other legal frameworks, with a focus on enhancing regulations and accountability for military personnel involved in low-intensity conflicts. It called for a multi-faceted approach to address the nation’s challenges comprehensively.