Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe

Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe, born on March 1, 1955, in Aba—then part of the Eastern Region of British Nigeria, now Abia State—is a distinguished Nigerian politician, economist, and public servant. He hails from the Ngwa ethnic group, a prominent sub-group of the Igbo people in southeastern Nigeria. Known for his vocal advocacy, resilience, and principled stance on national issues, Abaribe has played a significant role in shaping Nigerian legislative discourse.

He has served as the Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District since 2007, making him one of the longest-serving legislators in the Nigerian Senate. Over the years, he has held several influential positions, including Deputy Governor of Abia State and Senate Minority Leader. His career spans academia, corporate management, and national politics, marked by notable accomplishments, courageous opposition to injustice, and a deep commitment to the development of the South-East region.

Senator Abaribe maintains his primary residence in Aba, Abia State, where he also operates his constituency office at 147 Market Road. Given his senatorial duties, he also resides part-time in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, in proximity to the National Assembly.

Early Life and Education

Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe was born on March 1, 1955, in Aba, located in the Eastern Region of British Nigeria, now part of Abia State. He began his secondary education at Ihre High School, a Seventh-day Adventist institution, before transferring to Government College Umuahia. At Government College Umuahia, he excelled academically, obtaining his West African Senior School Certificate (WASSCE) with distinction in 1974.

Following his secondary education, Abaribe attended the University of Benin in Benin City, Edo State. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics in 1979 and proceeded to obtain a Master of Science degree in Economics in 1982. (Vanguard News)

Demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning, Abaribe furthered his education by attending executive courses at prestigious international institutions. He completed programs at the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, and the Harvard Kennedy School of Executive Education, Harvard University, USA. (Facebook)

This robust educational foundation laid the groundwork for Abaribe’s subsequent career in academia, business, and politics, equipping him with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective leadership and public service.

Professional Career

Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe’s professional journey encompasses academia, corporate management, and public service.

Academic Tenure (1982–1985)

Abaribe commenced his career as a Lecturer II in the Department of Economics at Edo State University (now Ambrose Alli University), Ekpoma, Edo State, from 1982 to 1985. During this period, he contributed to the academic development of the institution, focusing on economic theories and policies.

Corporate Management Roles

• SCOA Nigeria Plc (1985–1991): Abaribe transitioned to the private sector, joining SCOA Nigeria Plc as the Area Manager for Southern Nigeria. In this role, he oversaw operations, sales, and distribution channels across the southern region, contributing to the company’s expansion and profitability.
• NICON Plc (1991–1992): He served as the Senior Investment Manager at NICON Plc, where he was responsible for managing investment portfolios, analyzing market trends, and advising on financial strategies to optimize returns.
• Integrated Mortgage Company (1993–1995): Abaribe held the position of Managing Director at Integrated Mortgage Company. His leadership focused on providing mortgage solutions, developing housing finance products, and expanding the company’s market presence in Nigeria’s real estate sector.

These roles equipped Abaribe with extensive experience in economic analysis, investment management, and corporate governance, laying a solid foundation for his subsequent political career.

Political Career

Deputy Governor of Abia State (1999–2003)

Enyinnaya Abaribe served as the Deputy Governor of Abia State from May 29, 1999, to March 7, 2003, under Governor Orji Uzor Kalu. His tenure was marked by significant political turbulence, including three impeachment attempts by the Abia State House of Assembly.

• First Impeachment Attempt (August 1999): Just three months into his tenure, Abaribe faced his first impeachment attempt. He responded to the charges within the statutory 14-day period and was subsequently exonerated.(TheCable)
• Second Impeachment Attempt (Mid-2000): The House initiated another impeachment process without granting him the required 14-day response window. Abaribe challenged this in court, citing denial of fair hearing and procedural breaches. However, the court ruled it lacked jurisdiction, a decision upheld by the Court of Appeal.(The Nigerian Voice)
• Third Impeachment Attempt (March 2003): Facing a third impeachment, Abaribe resigned on March 7, 2003, sending his resignation via courier to ensure documentation. He later described the subsequent impeachment vote as “medicine after death” .(Wikipedia)

Senator for Abia South (2007–Present)

In 2007, Abaribe was elected as the Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He has since been re-elected in 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023, making him one of the longest-serving members of the National Assembly .

• Committee Roles: Throughout his tenure, Abaribe has served on various Senate committees, including Inter-Parliamentary Affairs, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Senate Services, and Works. He also held the position of Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity .(Wikipedia)
• Senate Minority Leader (2019–2022): On July 2, 2019, Abaribe was appointed as the Senate Minority Leader. He served in this capacity until May 27, 2022, when he resigned following his defection from the PDP to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) .(Wikipedia)
• 2023 Re-election and Committee Chairmanship: In the 2023 general elections, Abaribe was re-elected as Senator for Abia South, polling 49,693 votes. Subsequently, on August 8, 2023, he was appointed as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power .(Wikipedia)

Throughout his legislative career, Senator Abaribe has been known for his vocal advocacy on national issues, particularly concerning the rights and development of the South-East region.

Controversies and Legal Issues

Controversies and Legal Issues Involving Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe

1. Arrest by the Department of State Services (DSS) – June 2018

On June 22, 2018, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe was arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja. The arrest was reportedly linked to his role as one of the sureties for Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who had failed to appear in court after being granted bail. The DSS executed a search warrant at Abaribe’s residence, citing allegations of aiding and supporting a proscribed organization, IPOB, and possible involvement in arms and ammunition dealings. However, no incriminating evidence was reportedly found during the search. (Vanguard News)

Abaribe’s legal counsel, Chukwuma Umeh, SAN, stated that the arrest was unjustified and that the senator was being held without formal charges. After spending five days in detention, Abaribe was released on bail on June 26, 2018. (thebiafratimes.co, Wikipedia)

2. Legal Proceedings Related to Nnamdi Kanu’s Bail

Following Nnamdi Kanu’s disappearance, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, ordered Senator Abaribe and two other sureties to forfeit their N100 million bail bonds. The court mandated that each surety deposit the sum into the court’s account within two months and produce Kanu within six months. Failure to comply would result in the permanent forfeiture of the bail bonds. (thebiafratimes.co)

3. Call for President Buhari’s Resignation – January 2020

On January 29, 2020, during a Senate plenary session discussing national security challenges, Senator Abaribe called for President Muhammadu Buhari’s resignation. He criticized the administration’s handling of security issues, stating that the government had failed to fulfill its primary responsibility of protecting the lives and property of Nigerians. Abaribe referenced Buhari’s 2015 campaign promise, where he urged Nigerians to hold him accountable if he failed to improve security. (Channels Television, Wikipedia)

The call sparked significant reactions. The presidency condemned Abaribe’s statement, labeling it as irresponsible and stating that he should be in jail for his alleged support of IPOB. Additionally, the Igbos in Nigeria Movement (INM), a socio-political group, disowned Abaribe over his remarks and demanded an apology. (Vanguard News, Vanguard News)

4. Exposure of Alleged Budget Fraud

In 2018, Senator Abaribe raised concerns over an alleged insertion of N30 billion into the 2018 budget for the power sector. He claimed that the funds were smuggled into the budget without proper authorization. Following his arrest by the DSS, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) suggested that Abaribe’s detention was linked to his exposure of this budget irregularity, rather than his association with IPOB. (ThisDayLive, thebiafratimes.co)

5. Other Senate Actions and Positions

Throughout his tenure, Senator Abaribe has been known for his vocal stance on various national issues. He has consistently advocated for the rights of the Igbo people and has been a proponent of restructuring Nigeria to address regional imbalances. His positions have often placed him at odds with the federal government, leading to both support and criticism from different quarters.

Personal Life

Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe is married to Florence Nwamaka Abaribe (née Morris), a distinguished public servant and administrator. In 2018, she was appointed as a Permanent Secretary in the Abia State Civil Service by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, recognizing her contributions to the state’s public sector.

The couple has three children:

• Chinonyerem Alali
• Obinna Ikechukwu
• Ikenna Enyinnaya Nwabueze

Senator Abaribe is also a proud grandfather, often expressing joy in his expanding family.

In February 2020, Florence Nwamaka Abaribe celebrated her 60th birthday. The milestone was marked with a lavish celebration at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, attended by family, friends, and notable dignitaries, including Hon. Victor Ngumah.

Senator Abaribe holds the traditional title of “Nwadiohanma Ngwa,” reflecting his esteemed status within the Ngwa community of Abia State.

In 2021, he published his autobiography titled Made in Aba: A Life of Coincidences, offering insights into his personal and political journey.

Throughout his career, Senator Abaribe has maintained a reputation for integrity and dedication to public service. There are no publicly documented controversies related to his personal life, marriages, or family.

Associations and Collaborations

Abaribe has worked alongside various Igbo politicians, including Orji Uzor Kalu and Ike Ekweremadu. His advocacy for the release of Ralph Uwazuruike, leader of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), in 2007, highlights his involvement in Igbo affairs.

Awards and Recognitions

In 2016, the Senate Press Corps awarded Abaribe the “Most Innovative Senator in Constituency Projects” for his “Made in Aba” initiative, promoting locally made products. (Vanguard News)

Conclusion

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe’s career reflects a dedication to public service, marked by resilience in the face of challenges and a commitment to democratic ideals. His contributions continue to shape Nigerian politics, particularly in advocating for the rights and development of the South-East region.(Linda Ikeji’s Blog)

References

• Enyinnaya Abaribe. (n.d.). Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enyinnaya_Abaribe
• Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe Biography and Detailed Profile. (n.d.). Politicians Data. Retrieved from (politiciansdata.com)
• Abaribe: The Made-In-Aba Senator at 66. (2021, February). Vanguard News. Retrieved from (Vanguard News)
• Abaribe arrested for exposing N30bn budget fraud by FG, IPOB alleges. (2018, June 24). Vanguard News. Retrieved from (Vanguard News)
• Presidency Attacks Senator Abaribe Over Calls For Buhari’s Resignation. (2020, January 29). Sahara Reporters. Retrieved from (Sahara Reporters)
• Sahara Reporters. (2018, June 22). BREAKING: DSS Arrests Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe. Retrieved from (Sahara Reporters)
• ThisDay Live. (2018, June 24). Abaribe Arrested for Allegedly Aiding and Abetting IPOB, Says Lawyer. Retrieved from (ThisDayLive)
• Vanguard News. (2018, June 24). DSS arrested Abaribe for supporting IPOB, alleged gun running – Lawyer. Retrieved from (Vanguard News)
• The Biafra Times. (2018, November 15). Biafra: Court orders provisional forfeiture of Abaribe, others’ bail bonds over failure to produce Nnamdi Kanu. Retrieved from (thebiafratimes.co)
• Channels Television. (2020, January 29). Senator Abaribe Asks President Buhari To Resign Over Security Challenges. Retrieved from (Channels Television)
• Sahara Reporters. (2020, January 29). Presidency Attacks Senator Abaribe Over Calls For Buhari’s Resignation. Retrieved from
• Vanguard News. (2020, January 30). Buhari’s resignation comment: Igbo group disowns Abaribe, asks him to apologise. Retrieved from /(Vanguard News)
• The Biafra Times. (2018, June 27). IPOB vindicated: Public exposure of 30 billion Naira budget fraud, the reason behind Senator Abaribe’s arrest. Retrieved from (thebiafratimes.co)

Views: 58