The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has officially concluded its 2026 national elections, overcoming internal disputes and technical interruptions. Chief Aham Ejelam, SAN, who led the Electoral Committee, confirmed that Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, secured the presidency. She earned 12,317 votes, or 47.18 percent of the total, surpassing her competitors Lateef Akangbe, SAN, and Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN.
With this win, Badejo-Okusanya becomes the 33rd president of the association. This achievement marks a significant moment, as she is only the second woman to lead the organization since its 1933 inception, echoing a historical precedent set 34 years ago. Afam Okeke was also elected as the new General Secretary. The incoming leadership will serve a two-year term from 2026 to 2028.
Although the president-elect was not present in Abuja due to a flight delay, her campaign representative, Aminu Gadanya, SAN, stated that she intends to reconcile with her rivals. Outgoing president Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, acknowledged that the election was marred by a cyberattack intended to sabotage the process. He emphasized that the association remained resilient, despite these obstacles. Osigwe encouraged the winners to exercise humility and stressed that the organization must now focus on healing and strengthening its future electoral integrity.
