Lucky Igbinedion

Lucky Igbinedion: Nigerian Politician and Former Governor Chief Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion is a prominent Nigerian politician who served as the civilian Governor of Edo State, Nigeria, from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007. A member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), his political career is notable for his two consecutive terms leading the state. Early Life and Education Lucky Igbinedion was born on May 13, 1957, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He is the son of Sir Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, a wealthy Nigerian businessman and the Esama of the Benin Kingdom. Igbinedion received his early education in Nigeria before pursuing higher education abroad. He attended Government Primary School, Benin City, and later obtained a West African School Certificate. He went on to study at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, where he earned a diploma in Marketing. Igbinedion furthered his studies in the United States, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from the University of Wyoming, Laramie, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Jackson State University, Mississippi. Career Progression Igbinedion’s career prior to his governorship included a period in local government administration. In 1987, he was elected as the Chairman of Oredo Local Government Area in Bendel State (now Edo State), serving until 1989. His experience in this role provided the foundation for his later state-level political ambitions. Following Nigeria's transition to civilian rule in 1999, Igbinedion successfully contested the gubernatorial election in Edo State under the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). He was sworn in as the Governor of Edo State on May 29, 1999, and secured re-election in 2003, completing his second term in 2007. Major Achievements and Notable Works As Governor of Edo State for eight years, Igbinedion focused on various sectors of development. His administration prioritized infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Notable works during his tenure include the construction and rehabilitation of several primary and secondary school buildings across the state, and attempts to revitalize the state's healthcare system. His administration also oversaw some infrastructural projects, particularly road networks within Benin City and other major towns. A significant, though often debated, focus of his tenure was the promotion of private sector investment and industrialization within Edo State. Post-Governorship and Current Status Since leaving office in 2007, Lucky Igbinedion has remained a figure in Nigerian political and social circles. His post-governorship life has been marked by legal challenges related to his time in office. In 2008, he was charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with corruption and money laundering. He was later convicted on some counts, and subsequently reached a plea bargain agreement, which included the forfeiture of assets. Igbinedion has since maintained a lower public profile, focusing on private business interests and maintaining his influence within his political party and the Edo State elite.