Ignatius Ozoilo brings international perspective and deep legal experience to the 8PP team. In this blog, he shares the unique path that led him from Nigeria to Liverpool, why versatility has been key to his legal career, and how staying grounded in his values helps him balance both advocacy and family life.
What first inspired you to pursue law?
Growing up in Nigeria, I always had a strong sense of justice and curiosity about how systems work. Law felt like the right way to channel that. I first had a shot at it in England and Wales before getting qualified in Nigeria – it was a decision driven by ambition, but also a belief that I had more to learn. Law is different in every jurisdiction, and I was eager to understand it from multiple perspectives.
How did your legal journey bring you to the UK?
Before arriving in the UK, I lived in the Netherlands for several years. My wife and I met in Amsterdam, and it was during that time that I obtained Dutch citizenship. That played a crucial role in shaping the next step of my journey.
In 2004, I moved to the UK to study law at the University of Liverpool. It wasn’t a perfectly mapped-out plan – more a combination of determination and timing. I’d applied to several UK universities and received offers, but it was only when I acquired my Dutch passport that studying here became financially possible. Liverpool made an offer, and that became the door that opened.
After graduating in 2007, I completed the Bar Vocational Course and was called to the English Bar in 2008. Pupillage didn’t come easily, but I kept working – taking on roles that allowed me to build experience across a wide range of legal areas. That open-mindedness has served me well.
What kind of legal work have you done over the years?
In both Nigeria and the UK, I’ve worked across multiple practice areas: immigration, employment, commercial contracts, consumer credit, data protection, family, housing disrepair, and construction. In Nigeria, you’re trained to be a generalist – it’s a “jack of all trades” legal culture—and I brought that mindset with me to the UK.
I’ve represented clients in the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) in places like Manchester, Bradford, and London. Plus I’m particularly proud of several cases:
- FTT Appeal No: HU/02373 – UBN v Entry Clearance Officer, where the appeal was allowed
- UT Appeal – CO v SSHD, where I successfully applied for an injunction to halt deportation
- Johnson v Eastlight Community Homes Ltd [2021] EWHC 3069 (QB) – I produced the statement of case in this data protection claim. The case helped clarify that the de minimis concept applies under the General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679 (“GDPR”) and Data Protection Act 2018 (“DPA 2018”), and it is a key precedent around damages and distress.
You also practise law in Nigeria – how do you balance that with your UK work?
I was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 2014. The legal system there weaves pupillage into the qualification process, so I’ve had full rights of audience from day one. I still return to Nigeria periodically to work with J-K Gadzama LLP in Abuja, one of the country’s largest and most respected chambers.
It’s important for me to stay connected to my roots, and practising there sharpens my advocacy skills. It’s a very different environment, but it keeps me grounded and reminds me how far I’ve come.
What brought you to 8PP?
Before joining 8PP, I’d worked on a range of litigation projects including housing disrepair, cavity wall insulation, and undisclosed commission cases. That experience helped prepare me for the work I do now.
What stood out about 8PP was the collaborative ethos. It’s a modern chambers, and there’s a genuine openness to different perspectives and pathways into law. For someone like me, with a non-traditional route, that means a lot.
What’s your next goal professionally?
I’m currently looking to complete my UK pupillage, which will allow me to practise fully on my feet. In validation of my professional achievements, the Bar Standards Board granted me a six-month pupillage dispensation – meaning I’m eligible for a shortened programme: four months non-practising, and two months practising.
Beyond that, I want to continue supporting clients across both jurisdictions. My goal has always been to help people navigate the legal system with clarity and empathy, and I want to keep doing that – whether in an English court or a Nigerian courtroom.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy finding practical solutions for clients and helping them feel heard. People come to you often at a difficult point in their lives, and it means something to guide them through that process.
Also, I love the law itself. I’m committed to staying up to date with developments in procedure, regulation, and case law. There’s always more to learn.
You’re known for being quite stylish – tell us more!
I do like to dress well – it’s part of presenting yourself professionally, but also something I enjoy personally. I have a real thing for shoes, and I’ve found some great designer pairs at TK Maxx, thanks to my wife! I’m not about labels, but I do appreciate quality – and a good fit. If it works with a sharp suit, I’m happy.
What does life look like outside of work?
Family is everything. My wife and I met in Amsterdam over 20 years ago and married in 2004. We’ve built a life in Liverpool together, and it’s been a great place to raise our three children. My daughter is working towards a career in medicine, my son is interested in engineering, and my youngest is already making a name for himself as a sprinter and gymnast.
Most recently in gymnastics, he competed in the F:G Q1 All-Elite Group event, where he placed 5th. That result has qualified him for the regional qualifier, where he’ll compete alongside athletes from all regional groups at levels 1–4 and Development Group 3 at club level. It’s been exciting to watch his confidence and talent grow with every performance.
Last year, we had the opportunity to travel to Nigeria as a family. It was the first time we’d all gone together, and it was an incredible experience – full of culture, reconnection, and quality time with extended family. It meant a lot to me that the children could see where I’m from and experience that part of their heritage first-hand.
At home, I do a lot of the cooking, especially when my wife’s on shift as a recovery nurse. I like being hands-on and doing the shopping with the kids. It’s a different kind of routine from legal work, but just as rewarding.
Outside of family and work, I’m also a lifelong music enthusiast. I have a broad spectrum of tastes – on any given day you might catch me listening to Coldplay, Rihanna, or something completely different. I also really enjoy sport, particularly football and tennis – it’s a great way to unwind and stay active.
Final thoughts?
I’ve come a long way from where I started, and I’m grateful for every step. My path hasn’t always been straightforward, but it’s been rich with experience and growth. I believe in being open – open to people, to learning, to change. That’s what’s guided me so far, and it’s what keeps me moving forward.
