“In 2011, I won an election clean and clear, but there was a civilian coup,” he postulated.
By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
16-JUNE-2025
Former Governor of Imo State, Dr. Ikedi Ohakim, has made a startling revelation about his personal struggles following a whirlwind of political and social controversies in 2011. Speaking candidly during an interactive session with youths in Owerri, the state capital, Ohakim recounted how a fabricated scandal nearly drove him to take his own life.
According to the former governor, the false allegation that he physically assaulted a Catholic priest deeply affected his mental health and public image. Initially brushing off the rumor, he was later overwhelmed when major news platforms began circulating the story widely.
“I thought it was just political mischief until it dominated news headlines and television stations. I became emotionally shattered. At one point, I seriously considered suicide,” Ohakim admitted.
He firmly stated that he was outside Imo State at the time the incident allegedly occurred and had documented evidence to back his claim. “I still have the flight ticket. I wasn’t even in the state that day,” he affirmed.
Ohakim revealed that the truth eventually came to light when the cleric involved confessed to Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, admitting the entire story was manufactured to discredit him. Quoting Father Mbaka’s public declaration, he said, “If you wrongly accuse someone and discover the truth later, you owe them an apology.” Ohakim said he forgave all those responsible after the public clarification.
Reflecting on the 2011 governorship election, Ohakim maintained he had emerged victorious, but was unjustly removed from office through what he described as a “civilian coup.” Despite this, he bore no grudge and chose peace over protest.
He noted, “My administration prioritized transparency and initiated the Clean and Green Project, which addressed environmental sustainability, health, and education. It transformed Imo into a model of cleanliness and a tourist hub in the South-East.”
In a passionate appeal to Nigerian youths, Ohakim emphasized the importance of skill acquisition in today’s world. “I’m not just a politician. I’m a welder, a carpenter, an artist, and more. If you lack a skill in this century, you’re like a wild animal without direction,” he advised.
The former governor’s emotional testimony serves as a profound lesson in resilience, integrity, and personal reinvention in the face of public adversity.
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Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke