A member of the House of Representatives, Solomon Bob, has raised concerns over a controversial N300 million payment made to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) by the Rivers State Government. Bob, who represents Akuku-Toru/Asari-Toru Federal Constituency, questioned the NBA’s response to the payment, which was labeled as a “gift” by the association.
The lawmaker described the NBA’s stance on the matter as “unreasonable and unbecoming,” stressing that such actions were not in line with the expected standards of an organization that portrays itself as an impartial watchdog. He accused the NBA of compromising its credibility by engaging in a questionable relationship with the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara.
Speaking to the press, Bob demanded that the NBA return the N300 million, citing concerns about the transparency and the integrity of the transaction. “The NBA’s claim that the money was a gift is not only suspicious, but it also raises questions about the association’s commitment to fairness and justice. Such conduct undermines the very principles they are supposed to uphold,” Bob noted.
The controversy comes in the wake of a turbulent period for the NBA. Recently, the association found itself at the center of national attention when it opposed the state of emergency declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025. The NBA’s objection to the state of emergency, coupled with its decision to relocate its annual conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu, has sparked widespread debate. The association’s actions have been viewed by many as politically motivated, adding fuel to the growing controversy surrounding its leadership.
Bob’s statements have further intensified the scrutiny of the NBA’s conduct, with critics suggesting that the association may have allowed political interests to influence its decisions. The lawmaker’s call for the N300 million to be returned highlights the growing discontent with the NBA’s role in the political dynamics of Rivers State.
