Olumide Akpata, the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, has resigned from Templars, a major law firm where he served as Senior Partner.

Apata stated in a statement on Thursday that he is quitting the firm to help with the crucial work of nation-building.

His resignation occurred just weeks after he joined the Labour Party (LP) and showed interest in running for governor of Edo State in the upcoming election.

The firm confirmed his resignation in a statement dated August 24, 2023, explaining that Apata formally notified the firm’s other partners and management of his decision to participate in active politics, and it was agreed that he stepped aside from the firm with effect from Thursday, August 31, 2023, in accordance with the firm’s governance protocols.