Samuel Ikoku: Breaking Boundaries in Nigerian Politics
Samuel Ikoku made history as the first Nigerian to defeat his father, Alvan Ikoku, in the 1957 Eastern House of Assembly elections by a narrow margin. Born in 1922, Samuel was deeply involved in Nigeria’s independence movement and held various political roles throughout his career, aligning with several political parties and contributing significantly to the nation’s development.
In the realm of Nigerian politics, it is rare for a child to compete against his own father in electoral contests, as this is culturally deemed disrespectful. Nonetheless, a significant milestone occurred 68 years ago when Samuel Ikoku became the first Nigerian to defeat his father, Alvan Ikoku, in an election. This landmark event took place on March 15, 1957, during the Eastern House of Assembly elections, where Samuel triumphed by a mere margin of 59 votes.
Samuel Ikoku was born on July 24, 1922, to Alvan Azinna and Grace Ikoku in Arochukwu, Abia State. He graduated from Achimota College before continuing his education at University College, Southampton. While at Southampton, he was actively involved in the Nigerian independence movement, publishing articles in the West African Pilot newspaper and supporting Nnamdi Azikiwe’s campaign for independence.
After completing his degree, Samuel Ikoku joined the radical wing of the independence movement, taking on an advisory role with the Nigerian Federation of Labour under Michael Imoudu. He co-founded the United Working People’s Party in 1952, which was subsequently disbanded by the government, accused of being subversive. This setback did not hinder his political engagement as he later aligned himself with the Action Group during the First Republic.
Ikoku often expressed his views on national issues candidly, earning the reputation of a controversial figure, described by former Science and Technology Minister Sam Momah. He criticized the Legislative Council, in which his father was a member, through writings in the West African Pilot, advocating for immediate independence in alignment with Azikiwe’s vision.
In the 1957 regional House of Assembly elections, Samuel Ikoku achieved victory, representing the Action Group and serving as the leader of the opposition. Prior to this election, Alvan Ikoku was also contesting the same seat under the United National Independent Party. His political career encountered challenges, including accusations during the Treasonable Felony Trial of 1962, although he was in Ghana at the time and did not return to fight his case.
While in Ghana, he organized a political party chapter, lectured at Nkrumah’s Ideological Institute, and worked as an editor for Ghana’s Spark Magazine. During the Nigerian Civil War, he opposed secession, returned to Nigeria, and promptly faced brief detention. Subsequently, he was appointed as the commissioner for Economic Development and Health in the East Central State.
In the Second Republic, Ikoku distanced himself from former Action Group members, aligning with Aminu Kano’s People’s Redemption Party. He served as Secretary-General of the party, advocating for the improvement of the lower class known as the ‘talakawa.’ He was a candidate for the vice-presidency in the 1979 election alongside Aminu Kano, which was won by Shehu Shagari. As the political landscape changed, he shifted from socialist ideologies, abandoning the PRP to become an adviser for Shagari.
Samuel Ikoku’s political journey is significant for its historical context and his pioneering achievement of defeating his father in an election. His active participation in Nigeria’s independence movement and his subsequent roles underscore his contributions to the country’s political landscape. Despite experiencing challenges and shifting alliances, Ikoku’s impact remains noteworthy within Nigerian political history, culminating in his lasting legacy after his passing in 1997.
Original Source: businessday.ng
