Meet Olumide Akpata: a former NBA President and top contender for Edo State Governor

Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party candidate for the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election, he is one of the top three contenders in the 2024 race to become the next governor of Edo State, is a renowned legal expert and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). With a candidacy rooted in economic revitalization, social reforms, and people-focused governance, Akpata brings a refreshing vision to the future of Edo State, seeking to lead with transparency, equity, and progressive change. His entry into politics marks a significant shift in leadership, offering hope to Edo State’s electorate.

Early Life of Olumide Akpata

Born on October 7, 1972, into the illustrious Akpata family of Edo State, Olumide Akpata’s journey to prominence began with his education at King’s College in Lagos, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious secondary schools. He went on to study law at the University of Benin, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree. After completing his legal education in Nigeria, Akpata furthered his professional development abroad, gaining a global perspective on legal practice and governance. This diverse educational background has played a critical role in shaping Akpata’s career as a legal luminary and public figure.

Professional Background

Olumide Akpata began his legal career at Dr. Mudiaga Odje & Co, where he specialized in litigation. In 1996, he joined TEMPLARS, a top-tier Nigerian law firm, and quickly rose through the ranks to become a Senior Partner. Under his leadership, TEMPLARS grew into one of Nigeria’s most respected legal practices, with expertise spanning corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, energy law, and policy advisory services. Akpata’s experience advising multinational companies and governments on complex legal issues has earned him widespread respect in both national and international legal circles. His career is marked by a commitment to excellence, integrity, and the rule of law.

Previous Political Offices and Public Service: NBA Presidency and Reforms

Akpata’s most notable public service role to date was his tenure as the 30th President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) from 2020 to 2022. His election to this prestigious office was historic, as he was the first non-Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) to lead the NBA in decades. This break from tradition signaled a progressive shift within the association and demonstrated Akpata’s commitment to inclusivity within the legal profession. His presidency was characterized by bold reforms, including improved welfare for lawyers, the promotion of technological advancements in the legal system, and advocacy for judicial independence.

During his time as NBA President, Akpata also championed social justice causes, most notably during the #EndSARS protests, where he played a key role in holding the government accountable for police brutality and advocating for police reforms. His leadership during this critical period earned him widespread acclaim as a progressive leader dedicated to the rule of law, social justice, and governance reforms. These accomplishments have bolstered his reputation as a strong advocate for change and positioned him as a formidable candidate in the 2024 gubernatorial race.

Political Involvement and Governorship Ambition

Olumide Akpata’s decision to run for governor under the Labour Party reflects his alignment with the party’s core values of social justice, equity, and a people-centered approach to governance. His gubernatorial campaign is focused on delivering transformative change to Edo State, with a strong emphasis on economic diversification, infrastructure development, and human capital enhancement. Akpata’s decision to enter politics is driven by his belief that good governance, transparency, and accountability are the cornerstones of a prosperous society.

Akpata’s bid for the Edo State governorship is seen as a response to the state’s pressing challenges, including high unemployment rates, infrastructural decay, and inadequate healthcare and education systems. His campaign platform is built around addressing these critical issues and ensuring that Edo State’s governance systems work for all its citizens.

Governorship Vision for Edo State

Akpata’s vision for Edo State is centered on reforming its governance structures to ensure that they serve the people effectively and equitably. His manifesto prioritizes economic diversification, with a focus on agriculture, technology, and industrialization as key sectors for driving job creation and revenue growth. He is committed to addressing infrastructural deficits, particularly in rural areas, to ensure balanced development across the state.

Additionally, Akpata has outlined plans to overhaul the state’s healthcare and education systems. His campaign promises to increase funding for public hospitals and schools, improve teacher training, and ensure access to quality healthcare services for all Edo residents. Akpata’s leadership style is characterized by inclusivity and participatory governance, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping the future of the state. His people-first approach is at the heart of his campaign, reflecting his desire to lead a government that is responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people.

Key Campaign Priorities of Olumide Akpata

1. Economic Diversification and Job Creation: Akpata’s campaign emphasizes the importance of diversifying Edo State’s economy through strategic investments in agriculture, technology, and industrial sectors. By fostering economic growth in these areas, Akpata aims to create sustainable jobs and stimulate the state’s economy.
2. Healthcare Reform: Akpata is committed to improving Edo State’s healthcare system by increasing access to quality healthcare services, particularly in underserved and rural areas. His healthcare reform plans also include upgrading the infrastructure of public hospitals and ensuring that medical professionals receive adequate training and resources.
3. Education System Overhaul: Akpata’s campaign includes comprehensive plans to enhance the quality of education in Edo State. He seeks to improve school infrastructure, raise teaching standards, and ensure that students have access to modern learning tools and resources. His education reforms are designed to equip young people with the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
4. Infrastructure Development: Recognizing the critical role infrastructure plays in economic development, Akpata has prioritized the construction and maintenance of roads, electricity, and water supply systems, particularly in rural communities. This focus on infrastructure development is aimed at promoting equitable growth and improving the quality of life for all residents.
5. Youth Empowerment and Skills Development: Akpata’s campaign places a strong emphasis on empowering Edo State’s youth through skills acquisition programs, entrepreneurial support, and opportunities for active participation in governance. His goal is to equip young people with the tools they need to contribute to the state’s development and lead the way in shaping its future.

Olumide Akpata’s candidacy for the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election represents a new era of leadership focused on transparency, accountability, and progressive governance. His extensive legal background, public service experience, and unwavering commitment to social justice make him a compelling choice for Edo State’s electorate. With a campaign focused on economic diversification, infrastructure development, and human capital enhancement, Akpata offers a clear vision for transforming Edo State into a prosperous and equitable society. As the Labour Party candidate, his message of hope and renewal resonates with a broad cross-section of Edo State’s population, positioning him as one of the top contenders in the 2024 gubernatorial race.

 

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