NBA Condemns Alleged Appointment of Maina as Abuja Branch Patron
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has launched disciplinary proceedings against Anthony Ojo, chairman of its Garki branch in Abuja, for appointing ex-convict Abdulrasheed Maina as the branch’s grand patron.
In a statement, NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) condemned the action, saying it tarnishes the reputation of the legal profession, undermines the government’s anti-corruption efforts, and contradicts the association’s commitment to the rule of law.
Maina, former Chairman of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team (PRTT), was convicted of money laundering by a Federal High Court in Abuja on November 8, 2021.
He received an eight-year jail sentence, effective from October 25, 2019, while his company, Common Input Property and Investment Limited, was ordered to be wound up.
The court also mandated the forfeiture of approximately N2.1 billion from Maina’s accounts, $223,396.30 to the Federal Government, his Abuja properties in Lifecamp and Jabi, and auctioned his bulletproof and BMW 5 Series vehicles.
Maina has since served his sentence and was recently released.
Osigwe described Ojo’s comments on Maina’s pending Supreme Court appeal as “reprehensible” and emphasised that the NBA will not intervene in or influence ongoing judicial proceedings.
“While the NBA respects Mr. Maina’s right to appeal, the Bar will not comment on such cases or appear to sway public opinion,” the statement said.
The NBA warned that endorsing or condoning corrupt practices violates professional ethics and undermines public confidence in the legal system.
The association directed Ojo to immediately revoke Maina’s appointment and cease any public statements supporting him or other litigants in active cases.
Disciplinary action will proceed against Ojo for breaches of the NBA Constitution, professional conduct rules, and the values of integrity and accountability central to the legal profession.
The Bar reiterated its commitment to fighting corruption and maintaining public trust in justice.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
