The crisis rocking the Owerri Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association over a N100 million gift from the Imo State Government has taken a new turn as NBA President, Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, has set up an independent probe panel to investigate the matter.
The three-member committee comprises the NBA General Secretary, Afam Okeke, Third Vice-President, Iniobong Irene Pepple, and the National Treasurer, Esther Jimoh.
Members Petition, Demand EGM
The intervention follows petitions and widespread concerns raised by members of the Owerri branch over alleged impropriety in the receipt, management and disbursement of the fund.
A total of 183 members of the branch had requisitioned an Extraordinary General Meeting to discuss the controversial gift and its application, forcing the national leadership to step in.
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Panel To Examine Financial Records
In a statement issued on Thursday, Badejo-Okusanya mandated the committee to examine all relevant financial records, receive representations from all parties concerned, and submit its findings and recommendations on or before October 30, 2026.
She also directed that the committee attend the EGM earlier scheduled for yesterday as her representatives to observe proceedings and ensure an orderly meeting.
The NBA President further directed that all relevant financial documents relating to the gift be preserved and made available to the committee to enable a thorough investigation.
Due Process, Not Witch-Hunt
Badejo-Okusanya stressed that the constitution of the committee does not amount to a finding of guilt against any individual.
According to her, every person whose conduct is questioned in the matter will be given a fair opportunity to respond.
She reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability and due process in handling members’ concerns.
“Accountability must go hand in hand with due process, and our response must sustain members’ confidence in the association,” she said.
