NBA slams appointment of convicted pension thief Abdulrasheed Maina as Patron

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the purported appointment of convicted former pension reform boss, Abdulrasheed Maina, as Grand Patron of its Garki Branch, describing the move as a grave affront to the legal profession and the fight against corruption.

In a statement signed by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the NBA said it views the alleged appointment, reportedly made by the Chairman of the Garki Branch, Anthony Bamidele Ojo, as “reprehensible” and capable of bringing the Association and the legal profession into disrepute.

Mr. Maina was convicted for stealing over ₦2 billion in pension funds.

The NBA said the action contradicts the Association’s commitment to the rule of law and undermines public confidence in ongoing anti-corruption efforts by the government.

“The purported appointment not only paints the legal profession and the NBA in a bad light but also makes a mockery of the government’s fight against corruption,” the statement said.

The Association also criticised comments allegedly made by the branch chairman regarding Mr. Maina’s appeal, believed to be pending before the Supreme Court, stressing that the NBA would not comment on or attempt to influence matters that are sub judice.

“While the NBA respects Mr. Maina’s right to exhaust his appeal, the Bar will not, under any guise, comment on such proceedings or be seen to sway public opinion in his favour,” the statement added.

The NBA warned that any action perceived as endorsing or sanitising individuals convicted of criminal offences amounts to a violation of professional ethics and an assault on the rule of law.

Following the controversy, the Association directed Mr. Ojo to immediately withdraw the purported appointment and to desist from issuing statements or representations in support of Mr. Maina or any litigant with cases pending before the courts.

The NBA further announced that disciplinary proceedings would be initiated against the chairman of the Garki Branch for conduct inconsistent with the Constitution of the Association and the Rules of Professional Conduct.

“Integrity, accountability and respect for the judicial process are foundational values of the NBA. Any conduct that undermines these principles will attract firm institutional response,” the Association stated.