AWLA Issues Ultimatum to Breakaway Faction in Nigeria

The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) has given a seven-day ultimatum to a breakaway faction in Nigeria, demanding that they stop presenting themselves as officers of the Association and cease using its name, logo, and official communication platforms. This position statement was issued on Thursday and signed by Sakinah Adepeju Oduye-Quadri, Secretary General of AWLA International.

The conflict arose after the tenure of the former AWLA Nigeria executive expired on October 22, 2023, without elections being conducted. In response, AWLA International formed a Caretaker Committee on November 24, 2023.

The expired executive allegedly held an extraordinary meeting, formed an Electoral Committee, and conducted an election deemed unconstitutional. A faction led by Caroline Ibharuneafe inaugurated an unauthorized executive on January 5, 2024.

The Caretaker Committee later held elections on March 14, 2024, resulting in Falilat Oluwatoyin Orire as Country Representative and Toyin Ndidi Taiwo-Ojo as General Secretary. AWLA accused the breakaway faction of unlawfully taking over its Secretariat and warned of actions to protect its integrity if the faction continues its activities.