Virtual Conference Fallout: Why Lawyers rejected Gov el-Rufai

By DANGWA DANJUMA

Frayed nerves and reactions have trailed a virtual conference being organized by the Nigerian Bar Association over the selection of Governor Ahmed Nasir el-Rufai as one of the key speakers for the event.

Announcing the cancellation of his registration and withdrawal from attending the conference a young lawyer, Itong Washington tweeted,"we should be able to take a definite stand on certain things. As an individual in my corner, this is about the best I can do."

it is unfortunate that Paul Usoro keeps making odious decisions that are highly regrettable

Reacting to Washington's position, Sunny Omekedo a lawyer and real estate consultant pointed out: "I expect the NBA to feel the pulse of its members. You have my support and I also withdraw".

On his part, Adeshola Adeola regretted that, "it is unfortunate that Paul Usoro keeps making odious decisions that are highly regrettable." Adeola described the action of the association as disgraceful, insensitive and irrational.

Nigerians who commented on the tweets have applauded what they described as responsible citizenship, urged other legal practitioners to follow suit; expressing misgivings over the selection after el-Rufai's 'body bag' threat on electoral observers and his perceived penchant for the disregard of court rulings aside the wanton killings ongoing in the state which he is widely believed to be complicit.

However, el-Rufai's supporters believe the resentment is fueled by hate and partisanship by members of the leading opposition party who see nothing good in the ruling party and their chieftains.

Nigerians who commented on the tweets have applauded what they described as responsible citizenship, urged other legal practitioners to follow suit

While the Nigerian Bar Association is yet to react to this new development, more lawyers have continued to announce their boycott of the conference which marks the exit of Paul Usoro, whose time as President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is in its twilight.

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