Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South, has publicly acknowledged his disbarment by the New York Bar Association, attributing the action to professional negligence rather than deliberate misconduct. The revelation came during an exclusive interview with Charles Aniagolu on ARISE News Primetime, where the senator also discussed his recent defection from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In the candid discussion, Imasuen addressed a report circulating on social media, which claimed he was permanently disbarred in New York for fraud and gross misconduct. He clarified that while the disbarment was factual, it stemmed from negligence during his legal practice in the United States, not fraudulent activities. “It was a case of oversight in my professional duties, not intentional wrongdoing,” Imasuen stated, expressing regret but emphasising his commitment to transparency.
The senator, who chairs the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, used the platform to reaffirm his dedication to public service in Nigeria. He urged constituents to focus on his legislative achievements rather than past professional setbacks abroad.
Imasuen’s defection to the APC on 12 June 2025 marked a significant political shift in Edo State. Citing internal crises within the Labour Party and a desire to align Edo South with federal development priorities under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Imasuen announced his move during a press event in Benin City.
As part of his midterm achievements, Imasuen highlighted the resolution of over 20 public petitions, the implementation of agricultural programmes boosting rubber, cocoa, and cashew farming, and scholarships awarded to students in Edo South. He noted that these initiatives have improved farmers’ yields and supported youth empowerment, reinforcing his decision to join the APC to sustain these efforts.
Imasuen’s defection adds to a wave of political realignments in Nigeria as lawmakers position themselves ahead of the next election cycle. His move has sparked mixed reactions, with some accusing him of opportunism, a charge he firmly rejected during the ARISE News interview. “This is a strategic decision to bring federal benefits to my people,” he asserted, aligning himself with Tinubu’s administration.
The disbarment revelation, however, has raised questions about Imasuen’s credibility, particularly given his role as Senate Ethics Committee chairman. Critics argue that the admission, even if framed as negligence, could undermine public trust. Supporters, meanwhile, commend his openness and point to his legislative record as evidence of his commitment to Edo South.
