*Seeks resolution amid allegations of financial impropriety
Amidst the ongoing Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Conference held in Abuja, a letter from the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) to the National Executive Committee (NEC) has sparked discussions regarding allegations of financial impropriety.
The letter, dated 28 August 2023, addressed to the President of the NBA, Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN FCIArb, seeks clarification on accusations made during a recent NEC meeting concerning outstanding expenses incurred during the 2022 NBA elections.
The ECNBA, responsible for overseeing credible and transparent elections of National Officers and Representatives to the General Council of the Bar, clarified its stance on the financial matters in question.
The allegations appear to stem from internal documents, including correspondence and memos, detailing the budgeting and expenditures related to the 2022 elections.
The letter explained that the ECNBA had operated within its budgetary constraints and adhered to the due process stipulated by the NBA Constitution for the selection and engagement of service providers. It also highlighted that the ECNBA had independently funded various activities before receiving its approved interim budget from the NBA.
Furthermore, the ECNBA addressed allegations of fraud made during the NEC meeting.
The committee noted that the internal documents in question contained handwritten notes by NBA staff members and were not generated by the ECNBA. It emphasized the open and transparent nature of its financial activities and expressed its willingness to provide clarifications to address any concerns.
The ECNBA urged the NBA-NEC to expedite a resolution on the matter, expressing concern over the potential reputational damage to the NBA within the specialized community of ICT service providers.
The letter called for a proper investigation and clarification of the allegations raised, emphasizing that the ECNBA is ready to provide answers and collaborate in finding a resolution.
As the legal community continues to deliberate on this issue, it remains to be seen how the NBA-NEC will respond and whether these allegations will impact the perception of the NBA’s financial and administrative integrity.
ECNBA’s Letter 31 August 2023
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