Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) of accepting an unapproved N300 million gift from the now-suspended administration of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike claimed the financial inducement influenced the NBA’s opposition to a proposed state of emergency in Rivers State.
Describing the transaction as illegal, Wike alleged that the NBA’s stance lacked objectivity and was driven by vested interests. “How will the NBA back an emergency rule in Rivers when they collected gifts? The gift was not appropriated; it was illegal,” Wike stated during a public appearance.
He also criticized the NBA for condemning a judicial ruling on local government matters without thoroughly reviewing the judgement. Wike said he had earlier informed the Body of Benchers about the alleged gift and accused the NBA of compromising its impartiality.
The NBA has yet to respond to the allegations.
