NBA President, Akpata Reacts to Gov Umahi’s Apology

The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr Olumide Akpata has reacted to the apology tendered by the Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. Dave Umahi, stressing that following the apology, the NBA would resume its backseat and allow the judicial process take its course.

Mr. Akpata stated this in a series of tweets while commenting on Gov Umahi’s apology which followed NBA’s demand that the governor retract and apologize for the uncomplimentary remarks he made against the person of Honourable Justice Iyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court.

In connection with Gov. Umahi’s apology, the NBA President tweeted:

“On 9th March 2022, I issued a Statement unequivocally condemning the reaction of H.E. Engr. Dave Umahi, the Governor of Ebonyi State to the Judgment of the FHC Abuja which ordered him and his Deputy to vacate office. I also demanded an apology and a retraction of the comments.

“Following that Statement, H.E. Engr. Umahi made extensive efforts to reach me and in the course of our conversation, I reiterated that the NBA has no interest in the case other than to ensure that the sanctity of the judicial system is protected & the rule of law respected.

“In line with our demands, H.E. Engr. Umahi addressed a cross section of Ebonyi State citizens, where he unreservedly apologised for his comments, clarified his intentions and very importantly too, called for calm while urging his people to refrain from denigrating the Judiciary.

“I will immediately transmit this apology to His Lordship, Hon. Justice Inyang Ekwo and My Lord the Hon. Chief Justice of Nigeria, who is the head of the Judiciary in Nigeria, and urge them to also accept same.

“I must however reiterate that there is a well established procedure by law for challenging unfavourable decisions of courts of competent jurisdiction and the @NigBarAssoc under my administration will continue to fulfil its mandate by rising to the defence of the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, and the sanctity of court orders.

“Now that the right thing has been done & the appeal process has been activated, we shall resume our backseat and allow the process take its course. As far as the NBA is concerned, this brings an end to this unfortunate episode but we hope that important lessons have been learnt.”

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