The Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area in Rivers State, Dr. Chidi Julius Lloyd, has expressed strong disapproval of the Nigerian Bar Association's (NBA) decision to invite social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to its ongoing 66th Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt. Lloyd, who is also a former law lecturer, believes that the conference should focus on significant legal issues rather than entertainment and social media theatrics.

In a recent interview, Lloyd articulated his concerns, stating that the NBA's annual gathering should serve as a platform for serious discussions among legal professionals, judges, and advocates of the rule of law. He criticized the inclusion of VDM, suggesting that it undermines the integrity of the conference and diverts attention from pressing legal matters affecting Nigeria's justice system.

Lloyd took to Facebook to voice his discontent in a post titled "Shame on the NBA," where he emphasized that the association should uphold its commitment to legal excellence and national development. He remarked, "It is therefore deeply disappointing that the NBA Annual Conference, which should feature renowned legal luminaries, is now being reduced to an avenue for clout, content creation and social media theatrics."

One of the key points of contention for Lloyd was VDM's remarks during the conference, which he felt disrespected members of the Armed Forces. He stated, "Inviting personalities like VDM to a platform meant for serious legal discourse, and allowing the use of that stage to insult members of the Armed Forces who risk their lives daily for our territorial sovereignty, was a misplacement of priority."

Lloyd praised the two military officers who responded to the comments made during VDM's session, asserting that they were defending the dignity and service of the military. He urged the NBA to refocus on its core responsibilities, including scholarship, advocacy, and nation-building, rather than succumbing to trends that prioritize virality over substance.

Additionally, Lloyd raised concerns about the lineup of speakers at the conference, noting the absence of influential figures such as Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN. He argued that their participation could have facilitated meaningful discussions on electoral reforms and other critical issues facing Nigeria's democracy.

The council chairman further criticized the invitation extended to Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential candidate from the 2023 elections, questioning his track record on local government elections during his tenure as governor of Anambra State. Lloyd remarked, "It is a shame that Peter Obi, who did not care to conduct a local government election in Anambra State for the eight years he was governor, was also invited to the conference to express his political interest."

Lloyd's remarks highlight a growing concern among legal professionals regarding the direction of the NBA and its role in addressing significant national issues. As the conference continues, many are left wondering if the NBA will heed these calls for a return to its foundational principles of legal advocacy and integrity.