By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja
The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Nyanya-Karu branch, Alexander Ebi Edim Esq, has cleared the NBA President, Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe SAN, of allegations of bias in the upcoming 2026 NBA elections. Edim, a delegate at the recent Maduguri NEC meeting, described the accusations as a “blatant and deliberate act of mischief” by some aspirants and their supporters.
In a statement, Edim emphasized that Osigwe has consistently expressed concerns about excessive spending by aspirants and warned against campaigning at the next NEC meeting, threatening disqualification for those who do so. Edim stressed that Osigwe never indicated he would not be neutral or support a particular candidate, attributing the accusations to “mischief makers” seeking to undermine his leadership.
Edim expressed disappointment that lawyers, expected to be image makers, are instead engaging in such tactics. He sees the move as desperation from certain aspirants and their supporters, aiming to antagonize the goodwill Osigwe has built for the Bar.
According to Edim, Osigwe’s stance on excessive spending and campaigning has been clear, and he has maintained a proactive leadership style. The statement aims to set the record straight, emphasizing Osigwe’s commitment to neutrality.
The controversy surrounds the intense competition in the 2026 NBA elections, with some aspirants and supporters making unsubstantiated claims. The NBA leadership is expected to maintain its neutrality and ensure a fair electoral process.
Edim’s exoneration of Osigwe underscores the NBA President’s dedication to a fair and transparent election process.
