Former NBA Gwagwalada Branch Chairman, Isah Abubakar Aliyu Withdraws from NBA General Secretary Race, Cites New Constitutional Amendment

Distinguished Bar leaders and esteemed colleagues,

Today marks my 41st birthday, and I am filled with gratitude to the Almighty for the journey thus far. As I reflect on my life’s journey, I am compelled to express my appreciation to those who have made it memorable and worth celebrating.

In my years on Earth, I’ve come to understand that as we age, the decisions we encounter often become more complex. Coincidentally, I find myself confronted with one of those tough decisions today. And so, distinguished colleagues, I seize this auspicious time to officially inform you about my withdrawal from the race for the position of the General Secretary of the NBA due to the fact that I will be few months short of the required 15 years post-call qualification requirement for the position at the close of nomination. We have argued that, in computing post-call, the first year of call should be included. This is clearly supported by a Federal High Court decision. I was called on the 3rd of November, 2009. I have paid my practicing fees for 15 years twice. I paid Twenty-five Thousand Naira (25,000.00) in the year 2023 and 2024. But, the amended 2021 Constitution of the NBA clearly provides that I will only become Fifteen years post-call at the anniversary of my call for the purposes of election. That was a grave oversight on our part and it is only honorable that we withdraw from this race having realized this.

Over the past year, I have traversed numerous branches across different states, consulting members on my ambition to serve as the Bar’s next General Secretary. I have forged friendships across Nigeria and will continue to cherish these connections. My encounters have enriched me as a human being, and I am profoundly grateful for the network of friends I have gained nationwide.

In every situation, my philosophy has been to express gratitude to God. I thank Him for His guidance in this matter and every other aspect of my life. Leadership is divinely ordained, and if it is His will, I trust that I will have the opportunity to serve the Bar in the future.

To my supporters from various branches, I am deeply thankful for your unwavering support. I regret that I may not be able to personally inform each of you of this decision, but please accept my sincere gratitude.

I extend special appreciation to my branch for the immense support I have received. Members of this branch, like others across the country, have stood by me, ready to campaign tirelessly for my victory. Thank you all immensely, and may God bless you abundantly.

Warm regards,

Isah Abubakar Aliyu

Past Chairman, NBA Gwagwalada Branch;

Secretary, NBA Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC)