The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has set up a three-member committee to investigate allegations of financial impropriety surrounding a ₦100 million grant from the Imo State Government to its Owerri branch.
NBA President, Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, announced the decision following growing concerns among branch members over how the funds were received, managed and spent.
The controversy has prompted 183 members to request an Extraordinary General Meeting to demand explanations regarding the handling of the money.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Badejo-Okusanya named the association’s General Secretary, Afam Okeke; Third Vice-President, Iniobong Irene Pepple; and Treasurer, Esther Jimoh, as members of the investigative panel.
The committee has been directed to examine relevant financial records, receive submissions from concerned parties and submit its findings and recommendations by October 30, 2026.
The NBA president also confirmed that the Extraordinary General Meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 15, would proceed as planned. Members of the committee were expected to attend as her representatives to observe the proceedings and support an orderly meeting.
She urged the branch chairman to grant the panel access to relevant documents and ensure full cooperation with the investigation.
Badejo-Okusanya stressed that the investigation was intended to establish the facts and address members’ concerns through due process.
She further clarified that setting up the committee did not amount to a finding of wrongdoing against any individual, adding that anyone whose conduct came under scrutiny would have an opportunity to respond.
The NBA president also directed that all relevant financial records be preserved and made available to facilitate a thorough examination of the transactions.
The controversy has exposed disagreements within the Owerri branch over the management of the government’s financial support, with concerned members demanding greater transparency and accountability.
The committee’s findings are expected to provide clarity on the disputed grant and guide any further action by the association’s leadership.
