The National Executive Council of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA-NEC) has taken a constructive step toward resolving the internal challenges within one of its most impactful arms — the Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL).
Recognized for its commitment to promoting accountability and good governance, SPIDEL has in recent times experienced internal leadership disagreements, which unfortunately led to the filing of court actions and disruptions to its usual operations.
During its quarterly meeting held on 15th May 2025 in Ilorin, Kwara State, and under the leadership of NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the NEC considered the matter and resolved to bring stability and progress to the Section. As part of this resolution, the interim caretaker committee previously overseeing SPIDEL was dissolved, and a seven-member Electoral Committee was constituted to conduct fresh elections at the upcoming SPIDEL Annual General Meeting, scheduled for August 2025.
In his remarks, Mazi Osigwe, SAN, commended the efforts of all stakeholders who contributed to ongoing reconciliation efforts. He noted that several months of dialogue and consensus-building had yielded positive results, with parties agreeing to withdraw all pending litigation connected to the matter in the interest of unity and the Section’s future.
The newly constituted SPIDEL Electoral Committee is chaired by respected legal scholar and NBA leader, Prof. Paul C. Ananaba, SAN, and comprises the following members:
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Prof. Paul C. Ananaba, SAN (Chairman – Ikeja Branch)
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Kunle Edun, SAN (Member – Warri Branch)
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Ibrahim Aliyu (Member – Nasarawa/Kano)
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Okey Ohagba (Secretary)
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Mojirayo Ogunlana (Member – Abuja Branch)
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Saadatu Abdullahi Mohammed (Member – Kano Branch)
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Enome Amatey (Member – Calabar Branch)
The NBA leadership expressed optimism that this renewed direction will restore full momentum to SPIDEL’s operations and continue to strengthen its vital role within the Association.
