Remembering Senator Ifeanyi Ubah: A Life of Business and Public Service

By Kweta Bellis

Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah (September 3, 1971 – July 27, 2024) was a distinguished Nigerian politician, entrepreneur, and businessman who served as a Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District until his death in London.

Here are ten notable aspects of Ubah’s life and legacy:

1. Early Life and Family Background
   • Ubah passed away at the age of 52, just weeks before his 53rd birthday on September 3.
   • He was the first son in a family of seven children, born to Mr. & Mrs. Alphonsus Ubah in Otolo, Nnewi, Anambra State.
   • Due to financial challenges, he left Premiere Academy, Lugbe, Abuja, to pursue trade at a young age. He later attended various business courses and seminars locally and internationally.
2. Business Ventures
   • Ubah began as an exporter of motor tyres and spare parts across West Africa, including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and DR Congo, and later expanded into Europe, with operations in Belgium and the United Kingdom.
3. Capital Oil
   • In 2001, Ubah founded Capital Oil, which became a significant player in the storage and distribution of petroleum products in Southeast and Southwest Nigeria. The company boasts one of the largest tank farms in Lagos.
4. The Authority Newspaper
   • Ubah launched The Authority Newspaper, a daily publication, on October 15, 2015, further diversifying his business portfolio.
5. Ifeanyi Ubah F.C.
   • He established Ifeanyi Ubah F.C., a football club in the Nigeria Premier League, after purchasing Gabros International Football Club. He also founded the Ifeanyi Ubah Foundation.
6. Political Aspirations
   • In 2014, Ubah ran for the governorship of Anambra State under the Labour Party but was unsuccessful.
   • On February 24, 2019, he was elected as the Senator for Anambra South under the Young Progressive Party before switching allegiance to the All Progressive Congress.
7. Personal Life
   • Ubah was married to Uchenna Ubah, a Business Administration graduate from Ahmadu Bello University. They had five children together.
8. Near-Fatal Attack
   • In September 2022, Ubah narrowly survived an ambush by gunmen in Enugwu-Ukwu, Anambra State, thanks to his bulletproof vehicle. The attack resulted in the death of at least five individuals, including two policemen.

Ubah’s contributions to business, sports, and politics have left an indelible mark on Nigeria. His life was characterized by resilience, entrepreneurship, and public service.