By Erewunmi Peace

Tension has emerged in Nigeria’s legal community ahead of the forthcoming Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) national elections, following reports that NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, allegedly admitted to being biased in favor of a particular candidate.

According to some online reports, representatives of Egbe Amofin Oodua, a prominent lawyers’ group, raised concerns during a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Maiduguri, claiming that Osigwe indicated he could not maintain neutrality in the election process. The group warned that such perceived bias could undermine the credibility of the elections.

While these reports are circulating online, there has been no official confirmation from the NBA or major national newspapers such as Vanguard, Punch, Channels TV, or The Nation. Some social media discussions suggest that the president has not made formal endorsements, but the situation has sparked debate within the legal community about the need for transparent and fair election procedures.

Observers note that the NBA leadership has faced criticism in the past for perceived interference in sectional elections, and stakeholders are urging strict adherence to neutrality to ensure confidence in the upcoming polls.

The NBA has yet to release an official statement regarding the allegations. Legal practitioners and observers continue to watch the situation closely as the election date approaches.