- University of Lagos
Master's degree in Management
Chief Ikedi Godson Ohakim was born on August 4, 1957, in Okohia, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria. He is the son of Chief and Mrs. Maxwell Nwachukwu Ohakim. Ohakim pursued higher education at the University of Lagos, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Management. โ1
Table of Contents
Professional Career
Ohakim’s professional journey spans over 15 years in senior commercial and executive management roles within multinational engineering and manufacturing companies in Nigeria, including First Aluminium and Tower Groups. In 1997, he became the Executive Director, and later the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Alucon Building Products Limited, Lagos. He also served as the Chairman of Mekahog Group of Companies, an integrated engineering group providing products and services for the defense, security, construction, fabrication, oil, and gas sectors. โ2
Political Career
Ohakim’s political career began with his appointment as Commissioner for Commerce, Industry, and Tourism in Imo State from 1992 to 1993 under Governor Evan Enwerem. He was a founding member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State but switched to the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) in November 2006. Running on the PPA platform, he was elected Governor of Imo State in April 2007. During his tenure, Ohakim initiated various developmental projects, including infrastructure improvements and economic reforms. In July 2009, he returned to the PDP, a move that sparked controversy and legal challenges. โ1
Controversies and Legal Issues
Ohakim’s career has been marred by several controversies:โ
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Assault Allegations: In 2010, allegations surfaced accusing Ohakim of assaulting a Catholic priest, claims he vehemently denied. The controversy affected his political standing, and subsequent investigations did not substantiate the allegations. โ
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Defamation Suit: In 2020, Ohakim filed a โฆ5 billion defamation lawsuit against Lady Chinyere Lilian Amuchienwa, who had accused him of fraud and harassment. The legal battle attracted significant media attention, highlighting personal and political tensions. โ3ย
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Fraud Charges: In October 2020, the Nigerian Police filed charges against Ohakim for allegedly using the name of the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, to defraud unsuspecting individuals. The case underscored ongoing legal challenges faced by the former governor. โ4
Personal Life
Ohakim is married to Barrister Chioma Ohakim, and they have five children. Their daughter, Adanna Steinacker, is a medical doctor, entrepreneur, and digital influencer, known for her online presence alongside her husband, David Steinacker. โ1
Associations with Notable Igbo Personalities
Throughout his career, Ohakim has interacted with various notable Igbo figures:โ
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Orji Uzor Kalu: The former Governor of Abia State was issued an arrest warrant by the Imo House of Assembly in 2009 for failing to substantiate allegations of misappropriation against Ohakim. โ
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Evan Enwerem: As Governor of Imo State, Enwerem appointed Ohakim as Commissioner for Commerce, Industry, and Tourism from 1992 to 1993. โ
Publications and Thought Leadership
Ohakim has contributed to literature on industrialization and leadership:โ
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“The Marketing Imperative for Rural Industrialization” (1994): This book offers a pragmatic approach to strategic marketing of intangible products, especially government programs and policies. โ
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“Pushing the Limits”: A personal account detailing his career and political philosophy.โ
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“The Courage to Challenge” and “Challenging New Frontiers”: Collections of his speeches reflecting on governance and development. โ
Recent Developments
In July 2023, Ohakim filed a โฆ1 billion lawsuit against Chikezie Nwadike for defamation, following accusations of being involved in corrupt practices during the Labour Party governorship primaries in Imo State. This legal action highlights ongoing political disputes and the contentious nature of Imo State politics. โ
Conclusion
Chief Ikedi Godson Ohakim’s life encapsulates a blend of business acumen, political endeavors, and legal controversies. His journey reflects the complexities of Nigerian politics and the intricate dynamics of public service and personal ambition.
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