FIC Report (Bayelsa State) – The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, has officially flagged off its 2026 Law Week with a press conference held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at the Penthouse of the State High Court Complex in Yenagoa.
Addressing journalists, the Branch Chairman, Mr. Clement Bibisa Kekemeke, expressed appreciation to individuals and institutions whose support has contributed to the growth and achievements of the Branch.
He specially acknowledged former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, GCON, Chairman of the Law Week plenary session, for adjusting his schedule to participate. He also commended the keynote speaker, Professor P.L.O. Lumumba, for honouring the invitation despite his tight commitments.
The Branch further lauded the Bayelsa State Government, led by Governor Douye Diri, for its consistent support, describing the partnership as vital to its progress. Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), was also praised for his contributions to the legal profession, particularly the establishment of the Chief October Lokpobiri Bar Centre.
Appreciation was extended to the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye; the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Biriyai Dambo, SAN; and key partners including High Chief Matthew Tonlagha of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited and Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku of the Niger Delta Development Commission.
The 2026 Law Week, themed “Securing the Future,” highlights the critical role of the legal profession in preserving the rule of law, strengthening democratic institutions, and ensuring national stability. Mr. Kekemeke noted that the theme challenges legal practitioners to go beyond routine practice and actively contribute to societal development.
Professor Lumumba is expected to deliver the keynote address titled “Sustainable National Assets Protection in Africa: Opportunities, Risks and Regulatory Pathways,” while the plenary session, “National Assets Protection: Nigeria’s Shared Responsibility,” will feature discussions involving key stakeholders, including security agencies and regulatory bodies.
Other activities lined up for the Law Week include the annual Law Dinner scheduled for June 6, 2026, at MASC Haven Event Centre, as well as a legal clinic in the Yenagoa–Ovom community and an outreach visit to Martha’s Home for the Elderly.
The Branch also reaffirmed its commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law, with Mr. Kekemeke noting that the NBA will continue to address concerns over police brutality through its Human Rights Committee.
The plenary session is slated for June 5, 2026, at the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) Conference Hall.
Mr. Kekemeke urged members and stakeholders to actively participate in the week-long activities, describing the Law Week as a platform to deepen legal knowledge, promote justice, and collectively secure Nigeria’s future.
Ighovojah Gloria Afure
Principal Information Officer
FIC Yenagoa, Bayelsa
3rd June 2026
