The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has come under sharp criticism from a civic group, the Centre for Constitutional Watch (CCW), over what it describes as the association’s inadequate response to the unfolding constitutional crisis in Rivers State.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Saturday, CCW Executive Director Dr Hassan Bello condemned the NBA’s decision to relocate its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu, branding the move a “muted, convenient reaction” that fails to address the seriousness of the situation.

The CCW accused the NBA of failing to rise to its historic role as a bulwark against constitutional violations, particularly in a moment where, according to the group, Nigeria’s democracy is being eroded by what it described as a “creeping military democracy”.

“You cannot applaud a doctor who simply walks away from a dying patient. By merely relocating their conference, the NBA is walking away from the heart of the crisis. Nigerians expected more. They expected resistance. They expected outrage,” the statement read.

The group described Rivers State as being “under siege,” alleging a breakdown of judicial independence and a breach of constitutional norms with the imposition of a “sole administrator” model, which it argues is both illegal and undemocratic.

“The courts are silent. The constitution is being desecrated in broad daylight. Yet, the supposed custodians of the law are making travel plans instead of leading the charge for justice,” the statement continued.

Asserting that “this is not the time for cautious statements,” the CCW urged the NBA to declare a national legal emergency, proposing a one-month boycott of all courts in Nigeria to protest the situation.

“You do not fight dictatorship by changing venue,” the group insisted. “You fight dictatorship by taking the fight to the courtrooms, the streets, and the national conscience.”

Calling on the NBA to take the matter before the Supreme Court, the CCW also urged the association to initiate public interest litigation aimed at nullifying the controversial sole administrator arrangement in Rivers.

The statement concluded with a call for civil society organisations, student bodies, and other professional groups to hold the NBA accountable, arguing that the rule of law cannot thrive if those charged with its defence choose “convenience over courage”.