Samuel Ikoku made history as the first Nigerian to defeat his father, Alvan Ikoku, in an election in 1957. He was born on July 24, 1922, and became actively involved in Nigeria’s independence movement during his time as a student in the UK. Over the years, Ikoku held various political roles and shifted allegiances, eventually becoming a prominent figure in Nigerian politics until his death in 1997.
Samuel Ikoku holds a significant place in Nigeria’s political history as the first child to defeat his father, Alvan Ikoku, in an election. This unprecedented event occurred on March 15, 1957, during the Eastern House of Assembly elections, where Samuel emerged victorious by a margin of 59 votes. Such a contest is culturally unusual in Nigeria, where it is often seen as disrespectful for a child to challenge a parent in political matters.
Born on July 24, 1922, in Arochukwu, Abia State, Samuel Ikoku pursued his education at Achimota College and the University College, Southampton. During his time at Southampton, he actively supported Nigeria’s independence movement, contributing articles to the West African Pilot, which was led by Nnamdi Azikiwe. His commitment to independence remained a significant aspect of his political career.
Following his graduation, Ikoku became involved with Nigeria’s independence movement, initially serving as an adviser to the Nigerian Federation of Labour led by Michael Imoudu. He co-founded the United Working People’s Party in 1952, but the party was disbanded the following year after being classified as subversive. Subsequently, Ikoku affiliated with the Action Group, where he became a prominent voice against the Legislative Council, which his father served on as a nominated member.
In the 1957 regional House of Assembly elections, Ikoku represented the Action Group and took on his father’s candidacy under the United National Independent Party. After securing his seat, he assumed the role of leader of the opposition. His political journey took a tumultuous turn in 1962 when he faced accusations during the Treasonable Felony Trial, associating him with prominent leaders like Obafemi Awolowo, although he was in Ghana at that time.
In Ghana, Ikoku not only organized a party branch but also contributed to academia as a lecturer at Kwame Nkrumah’s Ideological Institute and edited Spark Magazine. During the Nigerian Civil War, Ikoku opposed secession and later returned to Nigeria, where he held positions such as commissioner for Economic Development and Health in the East Central State. He later switched allegiances to the People’s Redemption Party, advocating for the rights of the talakawa.
Ikoku was Aminu Kano’s running mate in the 1979 presidential election, which was won by Shehu Shagari. As time progressed, he distanced himself from his socialist roots, eventually advising Shagari’s government and promoting military involvement in politics during Ibrahim Babangida’s administration. He later served as the deputy chairman of the Transition Implementation Committee during Sani Abacha’s regime, voicing support for Abacha’s self-succession if political parties endorsed his candidacy. Samuel Ikoku passed away in 1997, leaving behind a complex legacy in Nigerian politics.
Samuel Ikoku’s electoral victory against his father represents a pivotal moment in Nigerian political history, defying cultural norms and challenging the traditional dynamics of family hierarchy in politics. His involvement in the independence movement, various political parties, and government roles illustrates his significant contributions and shifts in ideology throughout his career. Ikoku’s legacy endures, reflecting the complexities of Nigeria’s political landscape during a transformative period.
Original Source: businessday.ng
