Efemena Iluezi-Ogbaudu, an associate at Strachan Partners and a law graduate of the University of Lagos has emerged winner of the first of its kind Verzus Challenge in Nigeria.
The Verzus Challenge, a virtual debate organized by The New Practice (TNP), a corporate-commercial law firm in Ikoyi, Lagos was set up for young lawyers zero – five years’ post-call with a prize of N5million for the winner, that is, winner takes all.
According to organizers, the desire to host the debate was borne out of the need to engage young lawyers in interesting and intellectually stimulating discourse.
“It has always been part of TNP to help in developing our ecosystem, identifying skills & talents and helping young lawyers in professional development,” Baba Alokolaro, Managing Partner, TNP said.
The debate topics were not entirely focused on law but touched on social issues that have burdened Nigerians especially in the wake of recent events that have indeed shaped the social and political views of many.
Omowunni Martins, Head, Marketing & Branding, AndersenTax said, “We wanted an initiative that would bring young lawyers together, create awareness of our practice through our social media platforms and create a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) that would help young lawyers.”
The debate was structured on three levels. The first was the quarterfinal which saw eight candidates (who were selected from over 110 submissions) cross swords at 3 pm every Wednesday from November 18-December 9, 2020.
The emerging four finalists then proceeded to the semi-finals which was split into two rounds – the first of which was held on December 16, 2020 and the second on January 6, 2021. The finals took place on January 13, 2021.
Iluezi-Ogbaudu who was overwhelmed, thanked TNP for setting up the platform to showcase the skills and talents of young lawyers.
“I feel good and relieved because it was a stressful process but very rewarding and enlightened for me. I thanked the organizers for putting this together,” he said.
The debate had seasoned judges from other fields/professions such as Tayo Oviosu of Paga, Toyin Odulate of Olori Cosmetics, Lanre Olusola of OLCA and Osayi Alile of ACT Foundation. This was in line with TNP’s desire to break out of the rigid social construct that has over time come to be associated with the legal profession.
However, for the finals, a more serious tone was introduced as they were an additional four judges who are renowned senior lawyers. They were Myma Belo Osagie of UUBO, Professor Konyin Ajayi of Olaniwun Ajayi LP, Gbenga Oyebode of Aluko & Oyebode, and Funke Adekoya of Aelex.
