Thelma Osatohanmwen
Olumide Akpata, former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has been removed from his membership in the National Judicial Council (NJC), over his political ambitions as he is allegedly set to contest in the upcoming Edo State gubernatorial elections
NEWSTODAYNG gathered that, he had history of clashes with the Body of Benchers during his tenure as NBA President as he was recognized belonging to the reformist faction within the NJC.
The decision, communicated through a letter signed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria and NJC Chairman, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, cited Akpata’s recent involvement in partisan politics as the reason for termination.
Sources close to Akpata express surprise at the decision, contending that the Chief Justice of Nigeria may not unilaterally remove an NJC member based solely on political grounds.
They argue that the prerogative for such action lies with the individual member, citing the voluntary resignation of former NJC member and Bauchi State Governor, Mohammed Abubakar, in 2015 to pursue political ambitions.
While troubled by the events, Akpata is reportedly hesitant to escalate the matter due to immense respect for the Chief Justice. However, if an amicable resolution is not reached internally, there is a possibility of seeking legal redress in the courts.
