Oserheimen Osunbor

Early Life and Background

Professor Oserheimen Osunbor was born on September 13, 1951, in Iruekpen, a community situated within the Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Hailing from the Esan ethnic group, his early life was rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the region. His formative years were spent navigating the educational system within his local environment. Growing up in a post-colonial Nigeria, Osunbor developed an early appreciation for public service and academic pursuit, attributes that would define his distinguished career. His upbringing instilled in him values of diligence, intellectual curiosity, and community engagement, which he carried into his professional and political life. The socio-political landscape of his youth, marked by the nascent stages of Nigeria's independence and subsequent political developments, likely influenced his decision to pursue a career that combined law, academia, and public service.

Education

Oserheimen Osunbor's academic journey is marked by a consistent pursuit of knowledge and excellence in legal scholarship. He began his formal education in his hometown, attending local primary schools in Iruekpen. For his secondary education, he enrolled at the prestigious Academy Grammar School in Sapele, Delta State, where he studied from 1965 to 1969, obtaining his West African School Certificate. Following his secondary education, he gained admission to the highly regarded University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B. Hons) degree, successfully graduating in 1975. Demonstrating an early commitment to legal practice, he proceeded to the Nigerian Law School in Lagos, where he completed his professional legal training and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1976, earning his Barrister-at-Law (B.L.) certificate. His quest for advanced legal knowledge led him abroad to the United Kingdom, specifically to the University of Warwick. There, he earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree in 1980, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Law in 1981. His doctoral research further solidified his expertise in various aspects of law, preparing him for a distinguished career in both academia and public service.

Career

Professor Oserheimen Osunbor's career is a remarkable blend of academia and politics, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to national development. He commenced his professional life as a legal academic, joining the Faculty of Law at the University of Maiduguri as a lecturer from 1977 to 1981. His passion for teaching and research led him back to his home state, where he joined Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma (then Bendel State University), in 1981. At Ambrose Alli University, he steadily climbed the academic ladder, eventually attaining the esteemed position of Professor of Law. His scholarly contributions and administrative prowess were recognized when he was appointed the Dean of the Faculty of Law, a role in which he significantly influenced legal education and curriculum development at the institution.

His foray into politics began in the nascent Fourth Republic. In 1999, Professor Osunbor successfully contested and was elected as the Senator representing the Edo Central Senatorial District under the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). He served a full four-year term, during which he quickly established himself as a diligent and effective legislator. His expertise in law was invaluable in his role as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters. In this capacity, he played a crucial role in reviewing and shaping key legislative instruments. His contributions led to his re-election in 2003, securing another four-year term in the Senate, again representing Edo Central Senatorial District under the PDP.

During his second term, his responsibilities expanded significantly. He continued to chair the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, and also took on the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). His leadership in the INEC committee was particularly critical during a period of electoral reforms and preparations for future elections. He was also a respected member of several other vital committees, including Finance and Appropriation, Foreign Affairs, Education, and Rules and Business. His legislative efforts focused on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting human rights, and ensuring a robust legal framework for national governance. He was instrumental in sponsoring and contributing to several significant bills, including amendments to the Legal Practitioners Act, the Evidence Act, and the Electoral Act, all aimed at improving the administration of justice and electoral integrity.

In 2007, Professor Osunbor sought to transition from the legislative arm to the executive, contesting the gubernatorial election for Edo State. He emerged victorious in the April 2007 elections, once again under the banner of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), and was subsequently sworn in as the Executive Governor of Edo State on May 29, 2007. His governorship, however, was marked by a significant legal challenge. His opponent, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole of the Action Congress (AC), contested the election results, alleging widespread irregularities. While the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal initially upheld Osunbor's victory in March 2008, the Appeal Court sitting in Benin City delivered a final judgment on November 11, 2008, overturning his election and declaring Adams Oshiomhole as the lawful winner. This judicial pronouncement brought an end to Osunbor's tenure as governor after approximately 18 months in office.

Following his removal from office, Professor Osunbor continued to be an influential voice in Nigerian politics and legal circles. He later joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he remained an active party member. In 2016, he once again sought the APC gubernatorial ticket for Edo State but was unsuccessful in the primary election, losing to Godwin Obaseki, who went on to become the governor. Despite the setbacks, his commitment to public service and democratic principles has remained unwavering.

Major Achievements

Professor Oserheimen Osunbor's career is replete with significant achievements across his academic and political endeavors. As an academic, he rose to the pinnacle of his profession, becoming a Professor of Law and serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Law at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. His leadership in these roles was instrumental in shaping countless legal minds and contributing to the body of legal scholarship in Nigeria. He authored numerous academic publications, articles, and presented papers at national and international conferences, solidifying his reputation as a formidable legal scholar.

In his eight years as a Senator representing Edo Central Senatorial District (1999-2007), Osunbor was a prolific and impactful legislator. He chaired the crucial Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for both terms, and also chaired the Senate Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in his second term. His legislative efforts led to the sponsorship and co-sponsorship of several landmark bills, including the Legal Practitioners Act (Amendment) Bill, which sought to reform the legal profession; the Evidence Act (Amendment) Bill, aimed at modernizing evidentiary rules; and the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, a critical piece of legislation designed to improve the integrity and fairness of Nigeria's electoral processes. His work in these committees was vital in strengthening Nigeria's legal framework and democratic institutions.

During his brief tenure as Governor of Edo State (May 2007 - November 2008), Professor Osunbor initiated several developmental projects focused on infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Although his administration was cut short, he laid the groundwork for various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Edo State citizens. His focus on good governance and accountability, even for a short period, left an impression of a leader committed to progress. His administration's efforts in areas like road construction and urban renewal projects were notable, demonstrating a clear vision for the state's development.

Personal Life

Professor Oserheimen Osunbor is married to Lady Uyen Osunbor. Their marriage has been a bedrock of support throughout his demanding career in academia and politics. Together, they have raised children, maintaining a private family life despite the public nature of his professional roles. Professor Osunbor is known for his calm demeanor, intellectual approach to issues, and dedication to his family. He maintains strong ties to his community in Iruekpen and Edo State, actively participating in local events and contributing to community development initiatives. His personal integrity and measured approach to public discourse are often highlighted by those who know him.

Legacy

Professor Oserheimen Osunbor's legacy is multifaceted, rooted deeply in his contributions to legal education, legislative reforms, and public service in Nigeria. As an academic, he is remembered as a distinguished Professor of Law and a Dean who shaped the careers of numerous legal professionals. His scholarly work and leadership at Ambrose Alli University significantly advanced legal jurisprudence and academic standards. In the political arena, his two terms as a Senator (1999-2007) established him as a principled and effective legislator, particularly in the critical areas of judiciary, human rights, and electoral reform. His tireless work in the Senate, including chairing key committees and sponsoring significant bills like the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, left an indelible mark on Nigeria's democratic development.

Although his governorship of Edo State was short-lived due due to a judicial reversal, his administration's initial focus on good governance, infrastructure development, and social services demonstrated a clear vision for progress. His handling of the legal challenges to his election, accepting the court's final verdict with grace, underscored his commitment to the rule of law and democratic principles. Osunbor exemplifies the public servant who transitions from intellectual leadership to political action, striving to apply academic rigor to practical governance. His contributions continue to inspire future generations of legal scholars and political leaders in Nigeria, marking him as a significant figure in the nation's history.