NBA Denies Sharing $2,000 with SANs

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has refuted claims that $2,000 was distributed to some Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) as an “attendance fee” during its recent engagement in Maiduguri, describing the allegation as unfounded and misleading.

In a statement issued by its National Secretariat, the association insisted that no such payment was made or authorised, stressing that the claim lacks credible evidence and unfairly questions the integrity of its leadership.

“The Association neither received nor authorised the distribution of any such sum,” the statement said.

The NBA further maintained that there is no documentary proof to support suggestions that the Borno State Government paid $2,000 to any group on its behalf. It noted the absence of payment vouchers, disbursement schedules, official beneficiary lists, or any identifiable budgetary provision under which such funds could have been processed.

NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), also clarified that no funds belonging to the association were diverted, misapplied or shared during the Maiduguri event. According to him, a review of the NBA’s accounts revealed no transaction reflecting the alleged payment.

Addressing speculation surrounding the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Maiduguri, the association explained that although the state governor attended a cocktail reception during the programme, he neither addressed participants nor made any financial presentation.

The NBA added that claims involving public funds can be verified through lawful channels, including formal inquiries or requests under the Freedom of Information Act. However, it noted that no evidence has been produced to substantiate the allegation.

The association reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in all its engagements.