Lucky Igbinedion

Early Life and Background

Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion was born on May 13, 1957, in Benin City, the capital of Edo State, Nigeria. He hails from an exceptionally prominent and influential family, which has played a significant role in the socio-economic and political landscape of Nigeria, particularly in the South-South region. His father is the highly revered Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, a chieftaincy title that signifies a 'friend of the people' and a highly respected figure in the traditional hierarchy of the ancient Benin Kingdom. Chief Gabriel Igbinedion is a renowned billionaire businessman with vast interests spanning education (including the establishment of Igbinedion University, Okada, the first private university in Nigeria), aviation, media, banking, and real estate. His mother is Lady Cherry Igbinedion. Growing up in such a privileged and politically connected household provided Lucky Igbinedion with early exposure to leadership, public service, and the intricacies of Nigerian society. This upbringing undoubtedly shaped his ambitions and prepared him for a career in public life, instilling in him a sense of responsibility towards community development and governance.

Education

Lucky Igbinedion received his early education in Benin City. He attended Government Primary School, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate. Following this, he proceeded to the prestigious Edo College, also in Benin City, for his secondary education, where he earned his West African School Certificate. Demonstrating an early inclination towards higher learning, Igbinedion pursued his university education in the United States of America. He enrolled at the University of Wyoming, located in Laramie, Wyoming, where he successfully completed a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Marketing in 1982. Not content with just an undergraduate qualification, he furthered his academic pursuits by enrolling in a Master's program. He subsequently obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Jacksonville State University, located in Jacksonville, Alabama, in 1984. His academic background in marketing and business administration equipped him with valuable skills in strategy, management, and resource allocation, which would later prove instrumental in his public service roles.

Career

Lucky Igbinedion's political career began at the grassroots level, providing him with foundational experience in local governance and community engagement. In 1987, he successfully contested and was elected as the Chairman of the Oredo Local Government Area, which encompasses a significant portion of Benin City, then part of Bendel State (now Edo State). He served in this capacity until 1989, a period during which he gained practical experience in public administration, infrastructure development at the local level, and addressing the immediate needs of his constituents. This initial role allowed him to build a political base and understand the intricate dynamics of local politics.

With Nigeria's return to democratic rule in 1999 after a prolonged period of military governance, Lucky Igbinedion emerged as a prominent figure in the political landscape of Edo State. He joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), one of the dominant political parties in the country. Under the banner of the PDP, he contested the gubernatorial election for Edo State in 1999 and emerged victorious. He was sworn into office as the Executive Governor of Edo State on May 29, 1999, marking the beginning of his first four-year term. His performance in his initial term led to his re-election in 2003, securing a second consecutive term as governor. He served diligently until May 29, 2007, completing eight years at the helm of Edo State's affairs. His tenure as governor was characterized by various policy initiatives and developmental projects aimed at improving the state's infrastructure, economy, and social services.

Major Achievements

During his two terms as Governor of Edo State from 1999 to 2007, Lucky Igbinedion's administration initiated and implemented several projects and policies aimed at the development of the state. These achievements spanned multiple sectors:

• Infrastructure Development: A significant focus of his administration was the rehabilitation and construction of road networks across the state, particularly in urban centers and rural areas. This included the construction of new roads, bridges, and culverts, which aimed to improve connectivity and facilitate economic activities within Edo State. His government also undertook projects for the renovation and construction of public buildings and offices.

• Education Sector Reforms: Igbinedion's government made substantial investments in the education sector. This included the renovation of numerous primary and secondary schools, the provision of educational materials, and initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and training of teachers. While Ambrose Alli University (formerly Bendel State University) was established prior to his tenure, his administration provided significant support for its development and the overall tertiary education landscape in the state.

• Healthcare Improvements: Efforts were made to upgrade healthcare facilities across Edo State. This involved the renovation of general hospitals and primary healthcare centers, as well as initiatives to improve access to medical services for the citizens. His administration focused on strengthening the state's capacity to deliver essential health services.

• Establishment of EDSOPADEC: One of his notable policy achievements was the establishment of the Edo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOPADEC). This commission was created with the mandate to address the specific developmental needs and environmental challenges faced by the oil-producing communities within Edo State. EDSOPADEC aimed to ensure that these communities, which contribute significantly to the state's revenue, received adequate attention and resources for their sustainable development.

• Economic Empowerment and Job Creation: His administration also pursued programs aimed at stimulating economic growth, attracting private sector investment, and creating employment opportunities for the teeming youth population of the state. These initiatives sought to diversify the state's economy and reduce poverty levels.

Controversies

Despite his achievements, Lucky Igbinedion's post-governorship career was significantly marked by legal challenges and corruption allegations. Upon leaving office in 2007, he became a subject of investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria's primary anti-graft agency. The EFCC accused him of widespread corruption, money laundering, and misappropriation of public funds during his eight-year tenure as governor. The charges included allegations of diverting state funds into private accounts and using front companies for illicit transactions.

In a landmark case that garnered significant public attention, Lucky Igbinedion entered into a plea bargain agreement with the EFCC in December 2008. On December 18, 2008, he pleaded guilty to one count of corrupt practices before a Federal High Court in Enugu. As part of the plea bargain, he agreed to return a substantial amount of money, specifically N500 million (Nigerian Naira, which was approximately equivalent to $3.3 million at the time), and three houses to the Edo State government. The court also ordered the forfeiture of additional properties and assets linked to him. While the plea bargain avoided a potentially lengthy and public trial, it officially confirmed his involvement in corrupt practices and sent a strong message about accountability for public office holders in Nigeria. This conviction significantly impacted his public image and fueled ongoing debates about governance and the fight against corruption in Nigeria.

Personal Life

Lucky Igbinedion is married to Mrs. Eki Igbinedion. During his two terms as Governor of Edo State, Mrs. Eki Igbinedion served as the First Lady of the state and was actively involved in various social welfare programs and initiatives, particularly those focused on women and children's empowerment and healthcare. Together, Lucky and Eki Igbinedion have several children. The Igbinedion family continues to be a prominent and influential force in Nigerian society, maintaining extensive business interests and a strong presence in the political and traditional circles of Edo State and beyond. His family's continued impact on education, particularly through Igbinedion University, further solidifies their enduring legacy.

Legacy

Lucky Igbinedion's legacy is a multifaceted one, often viewed through the dual lens of developmental achievements and significant controversy. On one hand, he is remembered for his efforts in infrastructure development, particularly road construction, and investments in the education and health sectors during his eight-year tenure as Governor of Edo State. His administration also championed the establishment of EDSOPADEC, an initiative aimed at addressing the specific needs of oil-producing communities, which was seen as a move towards more equitable resource distribution. These initiatives contributed to the physical and social development of the state during a critical period of Nigeria's return to democratic governance.

On the other hand, the corruption charges and subsequent plea bargain agreement, which led to his conviction and the forfeiture of assets, cast a long shadow over his public service career. This event became a significant reference point in Nigeria's anti-corruption discourse, highlighting the challenges of accountability for political leaders. His case continues to be cited in discussions about the integrity of public office in Nigeria. Despite the controversies, the Igbinedion name remains a powerful and influential one in Edo State's political, economic, and traditional spheres. Lucky Igbinedion's career serves as a complex case study of leadership in a developing democracy, encapsulating both the aspirations for progress and the persistent challenges of governance and ethical conduct.