In December, I made the difficult decision to step back from the NBA Presidential race in the interest of South-West consensus.
I did so in good faith, believing that unity was the primary requirement for our progress. However, leadership requires the courage to re-evaluate one’s path when it conflicts with core convictions.
Upon deep reflection and extensive consultation with members across the Bar, particularly the younger generation of female practitioners, I have realized that a unity built on the exclusion of competent female leadership is a compromise I can no longer sustain.
The Case for Merit and Equity
The Nigerian Bar Association, in its long history, has never elected a female President. While I initially prioritized regional alignment, I have come to believe that our profession’s advancement depends on breaking this glass ceiling.
We cannot advocate for justice externally while maintaining a “status quo” internally that overlooks qualified women.
Identity is not a Monopoly: No single caucus or power bloc holds exclusive ownership of our Yoruba identity or our regional aspirations. Mrs. Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, is a distinguished daughter of the South West.
Her success is not a threat to our regional interests; it is the ultimate realization of them. A victory for her is a victory for the South West and a testament to our region’s capacity to produce the very best.
Merit Over Factionalism: Having observed her stellar leadership at the Bar, her capacity to lead this Association is beyond question.
We do not need a candidate of “consensus” if that consensus requires us to ignore merit and the urgent need for inclusive, female leadership at the highest level.
I am aware that this decision will be met with resistance from those who prefer the comfort of the status quo.
I accept that. Integrity is not found in following the crowd, but in having the courage to correct one’s path when it no longer aligns with one’s conscience.
Consequently, I am formally withdrawing my participation from any previously announced coalition. I no longer aspire for any office for now as I concentrate on other career ambitions.
I hereby declare my full and unreserved support for Mrs. Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya, SAN. Her credentials, integrity, and proven capacity to lead the Bar are beyond question.
Integrity and Independence
I wish to state clearly: this is a personal decision of conscience. I am not acting under the direction or influence of any power bloc. My loyalty remains solely to the Bar and its future.
To those who may view this shift as a departure from regional solidarity, I offer a different perspective:
Identity: Mrs. Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, is a distinguished daughter of the South West. Her leadership would be a victory for our region and a testament to our commitment to merit.
Accountability: Correcting a course of action in the face of new insight is not a sign of instability; it is the hallmark of accountable leadership.
I am prepared for the critiques that may follow. However, I believe that true unity cannot exist at the expense of principle.
I remain committed to a Bar that is inclusive, progressive, and led by the
very best among us.
