Former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch, Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, has congratulated the Chairman, Executive Committee, and members of the NBA Ikot-Ekpene Branch on the occasion of their 2026 Law Week, commending their leadership and dedication in organizing what he described as a promising and impactful programme. He particularly lauded the choice of theme, “Enhancing the Integrity of Electoral Process through Deployment of Electronic Devices,” noting its relevance amid ongoing national discourse on electoral credibility and reform.
Akangbe emphasized the critical role of technology in strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system, observing that while concerns about its deployment persist, resistance in some quarters may be linked to entrenched practices. He urged members of the legal profession to champion reforms that promote transparency and accountability, expressing confidence that meaningful discussions during the Law Week would generate practical solutions for advancing a more credible and enduring democratic process in the country.
Read full statement below;
GOODWILL MESSAGE
I warmly congratulate the Chairman, Executive Committee, and all members of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikot-Ekpene Branch, on the occasion of your 2026 Law Week.
I commend the leadership of the Branch and the Law Week Planning Committee for their vision, hard work, and dedication in putting together what promises to be an engaging and impactful programme. The theme, “Enhancing the Integrity of Electoral Process through Deployment of Electronic Devices,” is both timely and highly relevant, especially given the ongoing national conversations around electoral credibility.
While some of the concerns raised about the use of technology in our electoral process are understandable, it is also clear that, in some cases, the resistance stems from a reluctance to let go of long-standing manipulative practices. The truth is that when properly deployed, technology can go a long way in reducing electoral malpractice and improving transparency.
As members of the legal profession, we have an important role to play in promoting reforms that strengthen our democratic institutions and protect the sanctity of the ballot. I strongly believe that if technology is effectively harnessed and implemented with integrity, Nigeria can make real progress towards a more credible and enduring democratic culture.
I am confident that the discussions during this Law Week will produce valuable insights and practical solutions in this regard.
I wish you all a successful, enriching, and memorable Law Week.
✍️
Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe,SAN, FCIArb(UK)
Former Chairman NBA Lagos Branch
