Three Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) are set to battle for the presidency of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) as lawyers across the country prepare to elect new national officers on July 18.
The race is between Olumuyiwa Akinboro, Lateef Akangbe and Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya.
The winner will succeed the incumbent NBA President, Afam Osigwe.
The three SANs emerged as the only cleared candidates for the association’s top office after the Electoral Committee of the NBA published the final list of qualified candidates.
The election comes amid controversy over alleged moves to postpone the exercise.
A purported report linked to a mediation meeting convened by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) had reportedly recommended the suspension of the election, dissolution of the Electoral Committee and other reforms.
However, the NBA and its Electoral Committee rejected the recommendations, insisting that only the association’s National Executive Council can postpone the poll.
Osigwe, in an interview on Wednesday, said he had no preferred candidate.
“I have absolutely nothing to do with the electoral process. So, whether I have favourite or not, it is immaterial. The three persons running for office each approached me to support them, but I’m not supporting any person,” he said.
Akinboro’s Agenda
Akinboro, a Life Bencher and principal partner of Akinboro & Co., was called to the Bar in 1991.
He served as NBA general secretary between 2010 and 2012 and was also secretary and Chairman of the NBA Abuja Branch.
His campaign focuses on lawyers’ welfare, mentorship, inclusion, institutional reform and protection of the rule of law.
“This election is about the soul of our profession and the future we are building together,” he said.
Akangbe’s Reform Plan
Akangbe, Managing Partner and Head of Dispute Resolution at Sofunde, Osakwe, Ogundipe & Belgore, was called to the Bar in 2003.
A former Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch, he is campaigning on a five-point agenda tagged I-DARE, covering institutional reforms, digital transformation, improved remuneration, judicial independence and lawyers’ welfare.
“This is I-DARE. Five pillars. Specific commitments. Delivery timelines. Measurable outcomes. Not a theme. A programme,” he said.
Badejo-Okunsanya’s Pledge
Badejo-Okunsanya, the only female candidate in the race, was elevated to SAN in 2025.
She is a Partner and Co-Head of Litigation and Dispute Resolution at ALP NG & Co. and chairs the 2024 NBA Annual General Conference Planning Committee.
Campaigning under the slogan, “A Bolder Bar That Works for Everyone,” she pledged to build a service-driven association focused on welfare, stronger branches, professional development and accountability.
“I want to serve you. Together, we can build a BOLD Bar anchored on service, accountability, inclusion, and results,” she said.
