Former Commonwealth Lawyers Association President, Boma Alabi, SAN, is advocating for a shift in how the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conducts its leadership elections. Ahead of the July 18 polls, she stated that the traditional practice of regional forums endorsing specific candidates is outdated and promotes division within the legal profession.
Alabi emphasized that individual lawyers should retain the right to select their leaders without pressure from interest groups. She believes that true democracy is best served through universal suffrage, which allows every member a direct voice, rather than a restricted delegates system that concentrates authority among a few people. According to Alabi, competition and free choice are essential for a healthy association.
Regarding the technical side of the election, she highlighted the importance of transparency in selecting IT service providers. She noted that the integrity of the voting process depends on the membership’s trust in the chosen firm’s impartiality. Furthermore, Alabi warned against outside interference in the NBA’s internal affairs, specifically cautioning the Attorney-General of the Federation against actions that might threaten the association’s autonomy.
Addressing leadership qualifications, Alabi rejected the notion that only Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) should lead the bar. She argued that professional rank is less important than personal integrity, vision, and a commitment to service. Finally, while she maintained that competence is the primary requirement for any candidate, she expressed strong support for electing the first female president of the NBA, noting that diverse and inclusive leadership is a vital step toward progress for the legal community.
