Nigerian politician (1960–2023)
Clement Annie Okonkwo (; 23 May 1960 – 7 June 2023) was a Nigerian politician and business mogul. He was elected Nigerian Senator for the Anambra Central constituency, taking office on 29 May 2007. He was a member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP).[1]
Okonkwo was born on 23 May 1960 in Ojoto, near Onitsha in Anambra State.[2]
He obtained an Advanced Diploma in Management, Harvard University, USA (1997–1998), Advanced Diploma in Commercial Law and Practice, University of Lagos (1995–1997) and Advanced Diploma in Marketing, University of Lagos (1994–1995).[1]
Entering business, he built a conglomerate employing over 7,000 people that includes firms such as Reliance Telecomm, Clemco Industries, Modern Communications (satellite TV Network), MacClemm Marketing Communications, Sunflower Nigeria and Pentagon Oil.[2]
After taking his seat in the Senate, he was appointed to committees on Upstream Petroleum Resources, Police Affairs, Environment (vice-chairman) and Agriculture.[1]
In a mid-term evaluation of Senators in May 2009, ThisDay noted that he had sponsored a bill for the Federal Government to make essential commodities accessible and affordable to Nigerians, and a bill to establish the Nigerians Citizens in Diaspora Commission.[3]
He was a contender in the February 2010 elections for Anambra State Governor.[4]
However, he lost to the incumbent, Peter Obi, who was reelected.[5]
Okonkwo died in the United States on 7 June 2023, at the age of 63.[6]
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