The Rivers State Government has rejected the Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) claim that the N300 million payment made by the state was a “gift” unrelated to hosting rights for the 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC).

According to the state government, the payment was made with the mutual understanding that Rivers State would host the conference, which would have brought significant economic benefits to the state.

Key Points

• Mutual Understanding: The Rivers State Government asserts that the N300 million payment was made based on a mutual understanding with the NBA that the state would host the 2025 AGC.
• Breach of Trust: The state government considers the NBA’s unilateral decision to relocate the AGC to Enugu State as unethical and a breach of trust.
• Refund Demand: The Rivers State Government has demanded a refund of the N300 million, warning that failure to comply will lead to legal action to recover the funds.