The Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has congratulated Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, on her election as President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), describing her emergence as a testament to her competence, integrity and commitment to the legal profession.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, Guwor said the new NBA President’s victory reflected the confidence reposed in her by members of the Bar to provide purposeful leadership at a critical period in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
According to him, Badejo-Okusanya’s track record, courage, reform-driven advocacy and dedication to the rule of law and judicial independence make her well-suited for the office.
The Conference Chairman noted that the values she represents align with the constitutional responsibilities of state legislatures to deepen democracy, strengthen institutions and promote access to justice for all Nigerians.
Guwor also congratulated serving members of the 36 State Houses of Assembly who are legal practitioners and members of the NBA, urging them to use their unique positions to strengthen collaboration between the legislature and the legal profession.
“I congratulate my colleagues in the 36 State Legislatures who are members of the Bar. Your dual role as lawmakers and legal practitioners places you in a unique position to bridge the legislature and the Bar.
“I urge you to leverage your professional training to enrich law-making, defend the rule of law, and strengthen collaboration between the NBA and state legislatures,” he said.
The Speaker appealed to members of the NBA to unite behind the newly elected leadership, stressing that the election was over and that the Association’s collective interest should now take precedence.
“The contest has come and gone. This is the time for unity. I urge all members of the Bar, including those who contested and did not emerge, to close ranks and support the new leadership. A united Bar is critical to the advancement of justice and democracy in our country,” Guwor stated.
He reaffirmed the readiness of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures to work closely with the NBA on legislative initiatives aimed at strengthening the judiciary, improving the justice system and enhancing the welfare of Nigerians.
“The legislature and the Bar must work together. We look forward to robust collaboration with the NBA in the review of laws that affect our courts, our people and the delivery of justice at the sub-national level,” he added.
Guwor also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom and good health for Badejo-Okusanya as she assumes office, expressing confidence that her tenure would promote unity, innovation and sustained progress within the legal profession.
