A chairmanship candidate for the Port Harcourt Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Jonas Iniayemana, has unveiled a manifesto focused on reconciliation, lawyers’ welfare and institutional reforms, with a proposed rent-to-own housing estate emerging as one of its key highlights.
In a manifesto seen by newsmen, Iniayemana said his vision is to restore unity and rebuild confidence within the association following a period marked by internal disputes, court cases and public disagreements.
According to him, the branch is ready to move beyond division and embrace a new era of peace, professionalism and meaningful development.
“I have reflected deeply on everything that has happened, and I believe our branch is ready for a new season of calmness, unity, and meaningful progress,” he stated.
The manifesto outlined several welfare initiatives aimed at improving the wellbeing of legal practitioners. These include the provision of free stamp and seal for members, complimentary medical examinations, free transportation to courts, free reception halls for newly married lawyers, health insurance for senior lawyers and financial grants for young practitioners.
Iniayemana also pledged to revive the branch’s cooperative society to provide members with improved access to financial support.
He said the proposed welfare programmes are designed to ensure that the association delivers tangible value to its members beyond the collection of annual dues.
Among the most ambitious proposals is the establishment of a rent-to-own housing estate for lawyers, a project he described as a long-term legacy initiative intended to provide affordable housing and greater financial security, particularly for young legal practitioners.
On judicial reforms, the candidate promised to strengthen collaboration between the Bar and the Bench through regular meetings, advocate for lower court filing fees, support the introduction of digital court recording systems and campaign for improved courtroom facilities.
He also proposed the creation of two Court of Appeal panels in Port Harcourt and the introduction of fixed one-hour court breaks to improve working conditions for judicial officers and legal practitioners.
To address lingering divisions within the branch, Iniayemana pledged transparent financial management, inclusive committee appointments, reconciliation meetings, unity town halls and mentorship programmes for younger lawyers.
Describing the manifesto as a practical roadmap rather than a political document, the NBA chairmanship hopeful said his administration, if elected, would prioritise unity, welfare, professionalism and ethical leadership while working to reposition the Port Harcourt Branch for sustainable growth.
