‘I’m leaving to contribute to nation-building’ — Olumide Akpata quits law firm

Olumide Akpata, former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has resigned from Templars law firm.

Akpata, in a statement issued on Thursday, said he is leaving the firm with effect from August 31 to contribute to the critical task of nation-building.

His resignation comes weeks after he confirmed that he had joined the Labour Party (LP).

Although he is yet to declare his intention, Akpata is believed to be interested in contesting the 2024 governorship election in Edo state.

“It is therefore with mixed feelings, but with a great sense of pride and responsibility, that I announce my disengagement from Templars with effect from 31st August 2023,” he said.

“This decision, which is not one that was taken lightly, became inevitable in view of my recent foray into active politics with a view to contributing towards the critical task of nation-building.

“I wish to assure the lawyers and staff at TEMPLARS, our clients, the legal community in Nigeria, and the general public that this decision was a collective one, which accords with the Firm’s governance protocols that I signed up to.

“In my absence, our clientele will continue to be served by over 100 lawyers in TEMPLARS led by twenty other partners (across different practice areas) working out of the Firm’s offices in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Accra.

“I sincerely appreciate the Managing Partner, Oghogho Akpata, my other Partners and the entire staff of TEMPLARS for their unwavering support and for always being there for me.

“Indeed, the story of my life will never be complete without a chapter devoted to the central role that TEMPLARS played therein.”

Akpata was the 30th president of the NBA.