"I was Undefeated in All Faculty Moot Court Competitions" — Vincent Ogbu, UNIZIK’s First Class Law Graduate

Vincent Ogbu, a First Class law graduate from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, excelled academically and in moot court competitions, and aspires to specialize in technology, media, and energy law while advocating for legal reforms in Nigeria.

Vincent Ogbu, an outstanding student from the Faculty of Law at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), achieved a First Class degree with a remarkable CGPA of 4.7 on a 5.0 scale for the 2022–2023 academic session. In an interview with KINGSLEY ALUMONA, Ogbu discussed his academic journey, his passion for law, and the challenges and rewards of studying at UNIZIK.

Ogbu’s fascination with law began in secondary school, where he perceived lawyers as problem-solvers and protectors.

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Influenced by legal literature and notable lawyers, he decided early on that his future lay in the legal profession. His decision to attend UNIZIK was partly influenced by his brother, Dr. Ebuka Ogbu, who emphasized the importance of cultural background and environment in choosing a university.

Ogbu described his time at UNIZIK as enriching, highlighting the academic coursework, experiential learning, and networking opportunities.

He particularly enjoyed courses in media, energy, and technology law, finding them intellectually stimulating and relevant to solving complex global issues. His academic success, he noted, was due to meticulous planning, continuous study, and a proactive approach to exams.

Ogbu excelled in moot court competitions, representing UNIZIK at various levels. His first external moot experience was at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where his team placed second.

He later participated in multiple in-house competitions, maintaining an undefeated record and winning the November 2021 Law Faculty Chambers’ moot competition. His experience extended to inter-university competitions, including the 2022 Nigerian National Rounds of the Manfred Lachs International Space Law competition.

For his final-year project, Ogbu focused on “An Analysis of the Legal Implications of the Innovations in the Petroleum Industry Act,” exploring the Act’s impact on governance and the oil sector. While acknowledging the Act’s regulatory improvements, he noted that it failed to address broader socio-economic issues affecting ordinary Nigerians.

Ogbu identified infrastructural shortcomings and a need for more student-lecturer interaction at UNIZIK as one of the major challenges he faced. He advocated for improved facilities, timely release of academic results, and better administrative support. He also emphasized the importance of true federalism in Nigeria’s legal system, suggesting a decentralization of powers for more effective governance.

Aspiring to specialize in technology, media, and energy law, Ogbu aims to tackle complex legal challenges in fast-evolving industries. He believes in the principle that “the law is the last hope of the common man,” despite acknowledging flaws in the Nigerian legal system. He supports judicial reforms to enhance efficiency and fairness in justice delivery.

Ogbu looks up to prominent lawyers like Adebayor Ogunlesi, who have leveraged their legal careers to achieve diversified success. His admiration for such figures reflects his desire to use law as a tool for personal and professional growth.

Ogbu’s journey from an aspiring student to an accomplished graduate exemplifies dedication, hard work, and a commitment to excellence. His story serves as an inspiration for future law students and young professionals.

SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, TRIBUNE

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