The Nigerian Bar Association has officially disclaimed the appointment of convicted ex-pension boss, Abdulrasheed Maina, as the Grand Patron of its Garki branch.
NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, described the move as a “putrid” action that brings the legal profession into global disrepute.
The association expressed outrage that a man convicted of stealing over N2 billion in pension funds would be granted such an honour.
Maina was sentenced to eight years in prison in 2021 after the court found him guilty of massive money laundering and asset theft.
The national body has now directed the Garki branch chairman, Bamidele Ojo, to immediately withdraw the controversial appointment.
Furthermore, the NBA has launched disciplinary proceedings against Ojo for undermining the integrity of the judicial process.
The leadership frowned at Ojo’s attempts to use the NBA’s platform to sway public opinion regarding Maina’s pending appeal.
According to the statement, the Bar exists to promote the rule of law and will not be used to launder the image of convicts.
Maina, who recently completed his prison term, had sparked the row after appearing in public wearing official NBA regalia.
The NBA insists that any conduct condoning corruption will be met with a firm and decisive institutional response.
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