NBA condemnation follows the alleged appointment of convicted ex-pension boss Abdulrasheed Maina as patron of NBA Garki Branch, as the Bar orders immediate withdrawal and commences disciplinary action.

Sunday, January 25, 2026 | Abuja

NBA Condemnation of the purported appointment of Abdulrasheed Maina–convicted for stealing over ₦2 billion in pension funds–as “Grand Patron of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Garki Branch” has drawn a stern institutional response, with the Association warning that such actions make a mockery of the legal profession and Nigeria’s fight against corruption.

In NBA Condemnation a strongly worded statement issued by the national leadership of the Association, the NBA described the alleged action, attributed to the Chairman of the NBA Garki Branch, Mr. Anthony Bamidele Ojo, as ethically indefensible and incompatible with the values of the legal profession.

Speaking on behalf of the Association, NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, said the purported appointment “paints the legal profession and the Nigerian Bar Association in a bad light” and undermines both public confidence in the justice system and the country’s anti-corruption efforts. NBA Condemnation.

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“The purported appointment not only diminishes the standing of the NBA,” Osigwe stated, “but also makes a mockery of the government’s fight against corruption and the Association’s core mandate of promoting the rule of law.”

Institutional Integrity and the Moral Cost to Society

Beyond internal professional misconduct, the NBA warned that honouring individuals convicted of corruption carries grave societal implications, particularly in a country battling entrenched financial crimes and declining public trust in institutions.

According to the Association, celebrating or legitimising convicted persons sends a dangerous message that corruption is excusable once influence, wealth, or notoriety is attained.

“The Bar fails in its duty to society and the cause of justice when it condones, encourages, or remains silent in the face of corrupt practices,” the statement noted.

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Globally, respected legal and professional bodies have adopted zero-tolerance standards to preserve institutional credibility. In South Africa, professional associations distanced themselves from figures linked to state capture to rebuild legitimacy. In Brazil, following the Lava Jato corruption scandal, honours and institutional affiliations were withdrawn to signal accountability. In advanced democracies such as the United States and United Kingdom, professional bodies routinely revoke honorary titles once criminal convictions are secured, regardless of pending appeals.

The NBA warned that deviating from this global norm risks normalising impunity and eroding ethical boundaries within society.

Sub Judice Concerns and Ethical Red Lines

The Association also condemned reported public comments made by the NBA Garki Branch Chairman concerning Mr. Maina’s appeal, believed to be pending before the Supreme Court.

While affirming every litigant’s constitutional right to exhaust the appellate process, the NBA stressed that no arm of the Bar must comment on, influence, or appear to prejudice matters that are sub judice.

Osigwe cautioned that any attempt by the Association or its officers to sway public opinion or judicial proceedings amounts to a grave violation of professional ethics and a direct affront to the rule of law.

Directives Issued, Disciplinary Action Triggered

Consequently, the NBA directed the Chairman of the Garki Branch to immediately withdraw any purported appointment of Abdulrasheed Maina as a patron of the Branch and to cease forthwith from issuing statements or representations in support of Mr. Maina or any litigant with pending court cases.

The Association further confirmed that following the NBA condemnation, disciplinary proceedings would be initiated against Mr. Ojo for conduct inconsistent with the Constitution of the NBA, the Rules of Professional Conduct, and the fundamental values of the legal profession.

“Integrity, accountability, respect for the judicial process, and the preservation of public confidence in the legal profession are non-negotiable,” the NBA leadership stated, adding that any conduct undermining these principles would attract firm institutional sanctions.

NBA Disclaims Appointment, Reaffirms Anti-Corruption Stance

The Nigerian Bar Association formally disclaimed the purported appointment of Abdulrasheed Maina as Grand Patron of NBA Garki Branch and reiterated its resolve to use its moral and institutional authority to combat corruption.

The Association stressed that the Bar must never become a vehicle for image laundering or social rehabilitation of individuals convicted of criminal offences, warning that such practices weaken justice systems and damage national credibility in the global community.

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Enugu CKC Old Boys celebrated the Feast of Christ the King and reaffirmed support for the N1.5bn CKC Endowment, honouring the historic legacy of a school that has produced eminent national and global leaders.

Enugu | Tuesday, December 9, 2025

The CKC Endowment has emerged as the central rallying point for Christ the King College (CKC) Onitsha Old Boys Association Worldwide as they celebrated the Feast of Christ the King across their global chapters. The recently launched N1.5 billion endowment fund stands as a bold, long-term commitment to strengthening CKC’s infrastructure, academic excellence, and student welfare. It reflects not only the gratitude of the Old Boys but also their belief in preserving the legacy of one of Nigeria’s most impactful educational institutions.

Founded in 1933 by Archbishop Charles Heerey, an Irish missionary driven by vision and discipline, Christ the King College quickly grew into a powerhouse of character formation and academic brilliance. Over the decades, CKC has produced eminent figures who contributed profoundly to Nigeria’s legal, political, religious, and intellectual development. These include Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, Justice Ambrose Akagoa, Justice Anthony Aniagolu, Mr. Peter Obi, Prof. Pat Utomi, Dominic Cardinal Ekandem, and Cardinal Francis Arinze. Their achievements underscore why the CKC Endowment is more than a financial drive-it is a pledge to maintain an institution that has shaped national history and global leadership.

The N1.5bn CKC Endowment is built around four strategic pillars: continuous improvement of infrastructural facilities; enhancement of teaching, learning, and sporting facilities; scholarship assistance to brilliant but indigent students; and incentives for academic and sporting excellence. With 12 robust chapters under the global body, every arm of the association is expected to contribute to the fund, ensuring that the CKC legacy not only endures but expands.

 Members of the Enugu Chapter of the CKC Old Boys and some of their wives at Filbon Enugu, Sunday. 

In Enugu, the spirit of the CKC Endowment was strongly felt as the Enugu Chapter celebrated the Feast of Christ the King in a joyful, nostalgic atmosphere. The day began with a reverent Sung Mass at Holy Ghost Cathedral, marked by solemn hymns, symbolic liturgy, and reflections on gratitude, brotherhood, and service. The Mass reaffirmed why CKC men-across generations-return annually to celebrate faith and fellowship.

From the cathedral, celebrations moved to Filbon Hotel, New Haven-one of Enugu’s vibrant social venues. The shift from sacred worship to lively camaraderie was seamless as Old Boys reconnected, shared memories of their CKC days, and reignited the bonds that time has only deepened.

Engr. Greg Nnaji, President of the Enugu Chapter, presided over proceedings with clarity, warmth, and a firm sense of purpose. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of unity within the Old Boys community and emphasized that supporting the CKC Endowment was both a duty and a privilege. He reminded attendees that CKC’s essence lies in its ability to raise disciplined, confident, and value-driven men-a tradition that must be protected through deliberate investment.

The fundraising segment was anchored by Engr. Okwy Emejulu, Chairman and CEO of Akiota Works Nigeria Ltd, who served as Chairman of the ceremony. He delivered inspiring remarks on gratitude, personal responsibility, and the need for successful alumni to sow back into fertile ground. He then demonstrated exemplary leadership by donating a significant amount to the CKC Endowment, drawing resounding applause and motivating others to support the initiative.

Also present were Sir Patrick Ekemezie, 2nd National Vice President of the Association, and Dr. Cyrillic Okpala, Secretary of the Enugu Chapter. Their participation underscored the cohesion between national and chapter leadership in driving the endowment vision. Yet the event’s tone ensured that every Old Boy in attendance-whether named or not-felt like an indispensable part of the CKC family.

 A cross-section of the CKC Old Boys Enugu chapter during the Mass at Holy Ghost Cathedral Enugu, Sunday 

The gathering attracted an impressive array of personalities whose careers reflect the calibre of CKC alumni. Among them were Sir M. J. Ilona, the oldest CKC Old Boy; Jerry Okolo (SAN); and Justice Patrick Amaizu, retired Justice of the Federal High Court. Adding further prestige was the presence of invited guest Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, the Enugu State Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Industry Investment.

However, beyond the array of distinguished faces, the heartbeat of the event was the camaraderie. Set after set, decade after decade, the hall echoed with laughter, recollections, and the unmistakable warmth of brotherhood. Treasured memories were revisited, new bonds were formed, and the collective resolve to uplift their alma mater was renewed.

This sense of unity seamlessly connects to the broader mission of the CKC Endowment. The alumni understand that sustaining CKC means giving future generations access to the same excellence that shaped icons like Justice Oputa, Peter Obi, Prof. Utomi, and Cardinals Arinze and Ekandem. It is a commitment to strengthen a national institution whose impact continues to echo across Nigeria and far beyond.

As the Enugu Chapter’s celebration drew to a close, one message stood firm: CKC may have produced generations of great men, but now it is the turn of those men-through the CKC Endowment-to secure CKC’s future. And judging by the energy, unity, and generosity on display in Enugu, the future of Christ the King College Onitsha remains incredibly bright.

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DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders: Analysts Warn Against Selective Justice as Security Trials Intensify

“DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders in Abuja over alleged terrorism financing and operational roles. Analysts and civil society groups stress the need for balanced justice, referencing government negotiations with bandits and terrorist networks elsewhere. The DSS statement, signed by Favour Dozie, highlights multiple ongoing terrorism trials, emphasizing fairness and adherence to the law.”

Abuja, Nigeria | Friday, November 21, 2925

The DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders in a high-profile development that has captured national attention. The Department of State Services, in a statement signed by Deputy Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, confirmed the filing of terrorism charges against seven individuals allegedly linked to Simon Ekpa. The charges were filed before the Federal High Court in Abuja under three separate suits: FHC/ABJ/CR/632/2025, FHC/ABJ/CR/633/2025, and FHC/ABJ/CR/634/2025 on 19 November 2025.

The suspects identified as key commanders, arms couriers, and financial facilitators for the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), were arraigned for allegedly receiving funds and other material support from Ekpa and foreign-based members of IPOB. Among the accused in DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders is Ibrahim Ali Larabo, described as an illegal immigrant from the Republic of Niger operating an unlicensed Bureau de Change. He is said to have facilitated the transfer of large sums of money for IPOB operations in the Southeast.

According to the DSS, the other suspects were involved as Eastern Security Network fighters and foot soldiers, coordinated and funded under directives from Simon Ekpa, who is currently serving a six-year sentence for terror-related offences in Finland.

The arraignment proceedings highlighted the seriousness of the charges, with the court confirming that all defendants were to be treated in accordance with Nigerian law. Legal observers noted that the DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders is significant not only for security enforcement but also as a test case for maintaining fairness, transparency, and national cohesion in sensitive trials.

The DSS statement referenced recent prosecutions in other terrorism cases. Ismaila, also known as Mai Tangaran, who coordinated the 2012 attacks on the Kano Police Headquarters and other critical facilities, was convicted under the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act 2013.

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced him to 15 years for count one and 20 years for counts two, three, and four, to run concurrently. Trials of other internationally wanted suspects, including Mahmud Muhammad Usman (Mamuda) and Abubakar Abba (Abu Baara), will resume on 15 January 2026.

Additionally, the prosecution of Khalid Al-Barnawi, alleged mastermind of the 26 August 2011 UN complex bombing, continues alongside four others. Five other individuals are arraigned on a nine-count charge over their alleged involvement in the 5 June 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State.

Ten additional suspects are facing prosecution in connection with attacks in Benue and Plateau States, following directives from President Bola Tinubu. The DSS also announced the imminent arraignment of Abdulazeez Obadaki, also known as Bomboy, and Musa Abubakar, a key arms and ammunition supplier arrested in Plateau State.

Security analysts and civil society groups, while acknowledging the necessity of the DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders, have urged caution to ensure actions are not interpreted as targeting a specific region.

Observers noted that this development comes shortly after the life sentence handed to Nnamdi Kanu, whose previous advocacy has been widely associated with the grievances of the Southeast region. Experts stress that security operations and judicial proceedings must be applied evenly, without bias or regional selectivity, to reinforce public trust in the justice system.

Analysts also drew attention to past instances where the government engaged in negotiations with bandits and terrorist networks, which has raised questions about consistency in enforcing the law.

Negotiations were held with the perpetrators of the Abuja–Kaduna train attack, while amnesty deals and peace talks have been documented with bandit factions in Zamfara. Engagements also occurred after mass school abductions in various Northern states, including Kankara, Tegina, and Bethel Baptist School, and diplomatic overtures have at times been extended to figures like Bello Turji, despite serious allegations of orchestrating violence.

Experts argue that these examples highlight the importance of treating all violent actors consistently under the law and ensuring that prosecution and negotiation strategies are clearly defined and non-discriminatory.

DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders – legal scholars emphasize that a balanced approach strengthens institutional credibility and national unity. They note that every person accused of violent or terrorist activities, whether associated with IPOB, ISWAP, or bandit networks, must face judicial scrutiny and be prosecuted based on evidence and due process. Civil society organizations have repeatedly warned that perceived selective justice risks undermining public confidence in security agencies and can exacerbate regional tensions.

Observers within the legal and security communities welcomed the detailed briefing from the DSS and the inclusion of Favour Dozie’s statement as a step toward transparency. Analysts insist that as the DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders, courts and security agencies must maintain a strict separation between operational enforcement and political negotiation.

Experts agree that ensuring fairness, maintaining adherence to the law, and avoiding the appearance of bias are essential to national stability and public trust.

Community leaders in the Southeast also appealed for calm, stressing that grievances should be addressed through legal and constitutional means. They encouraged citizens to respect judicial processes and to distinguish between individuals accused of violent acts and civilians uninvolved in criminal activity.

As the court proceedings continue, the DSS Arraigns 7 IPOB Commanders remains a central focus for security analysts, legal observers, and civil society advocates. The next stages of the trial are expected to further test the ability of the justice system to combine firmness, fairness, and diplomacy in prosecuting complex terrorism-related cases.

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