NBA Chair Edim Clears President Osigwe of Alleged Bias Ahead of 2026 Elections

By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka ,Abuja

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Nyanya–Karu Branch, Alexander Ebi Edim Esq, has absolved the President of the Association, Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe SAN, of allegations of partiality in the forthcoming 2026 NBA elections.
Edim, who attended the recent NBA National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Maiduguri as a delegate, described the claims as a “blatant and deliberate act of mischief” allegedly orchestrated by some aspirants and their supporters.

In a statement made available to the press, Edim noted that the NBA President has on several occasions raised concerns over excessive spending by aspirants and has cautioned against premature campaigning, particularly at NEC meetings. He recalled that Osigwe warned that any aspirant who violates this directive risks disqualification.
Edim stressed that at no point did Osigwe suggest that he would abandon neutrality or support any particular aspirant, insisting that the allegations are the handiwork of “mischief makers” bent on discrediting his leadership.
Expressing disappointment, Edim lamented that members of the legal profession, who should serve as custodians of integrity and image builders, are instead engaging in conduct capable of tarnishing the Association’s reputation. He described the actions as a sign of desperation by certain aspirants and their backers, aimed at undermining the goodwill Osigwe has earned within the Bar.
According to him, the NBA President’s position on curbing excessive spending and enforcing discipline during the electioneering process has been consistent, reflecting a proactive and principled leadership approach.
The statement, Edim said, was issued to set the record straight and reaffirm Osigwe’s commitment to neutrality as the Association prepares for the 2026 elections.
The controversy arises amid heightened competition ahead of the polls, with reports of unsubstantiated allegations circulating among aspirants and their supporters. The NBA leadership, however, is expected to uphold impartiality and guarantee a credible and transparent electoral process.
Edim’s defence of Osigwe, therefore, reinforces the NBA President’s resolve to ensure fairness and integrity in the conduct of the 2026 elections.