Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Dr Onyechi Ikpeazu is a well-known lawyer. As a distinguished barrister, he has represented numerous clients in various landmark cases, earning him national recognition and honors. Additionally, Dr Ikpeazu is an influential leader in the District Grand Lodge of Nigeria. This article outlines his early life, education, career, legal accomplishments, and involvement in Freemasonry.
| Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu | |
|---|---|
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| Birth Name | Onyechi Ikpeazu |
| Birth Date | April 15, 1959 |
| Birth Place | Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Education | Kendall College, Evanston, Illinois Lake Forest College, Lake Forest, Illinois Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma |
| Occupation | Lawyer, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Freemason |
| Years Active | 1984โpresent |
| Known For | Landmark legal cases, contributions to Freemasonry |
| Title | Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) |
| Spouse | |
| Children | |
| Awards | Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) |
Early Life and Education
Born on April 15, 1959, in Onitsha, Anambra State, Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu is the son of the late Hon Justice Chuba Ikpeazu, QC, OFR. He began his education at St. Joseph’s Primary School, Onitsha, and later attended Christ the King College, Onitsha (1971-1972), and Dennis Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha (1973-1975).
In 1976, Ikpeazu moved to the United States, where he attended Kendall College, Evanston, Illinois (1976-1978), Lake Forest College, Lake Forest, Illinois (1978-1980), and Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma (1980-1982), earning a Doctor of Juridical Science degree.
Legal Career
After completing his National Youth Service in Benin City (1982-1983), Ikpeazu attended the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1984. He initially worked with S.I. Oputa Esq. (1984-1985) before joining Ikpeazu Chambers, where he remains in active legal practice.
In 2002, Ikpeazu was elevated to the Inner Bar and conferred the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). Later, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria awarded him the National Honor of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
Notable Legal Accomplishments
Throughout his legal career, Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu has been involved in several landmark cases, including:
- Mojekwu v. Mojekwu and Mojekwu v. Iwuchukwu, which preserved the inheritance rights of women.
- Ngige v. Obi, a case that led to Peter Obi becoming the duly elected Governor of Anambra State.
- Obi v. INEC, a trailblazing Supreme Court of Nigeria decision that re-calibrated the election metric rule for gubernatorial elections in Nigeria.
- Representing Senator Ademola Adeleke in the Osun State Governorship Election Petition.
Dr. Ikpeazu has also provided legal representation in international arbitrations and successfully defended notable individuals in criminal cases.
Freemasonry and Leadership
Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu is an active member of the District Grand Lodge of Nigeria (English Constitution) and holds the District Rank of PDGReg. He was initiated into Freemasonry in Triumphant Lodge No. 8720 EC and later installed as the Worshipful Master in 2002.
As a Freemason, Dr. Ikpeazu aims to improve the relationship between Masons and the church, ensuring that Masons can practice their profession and faith without persecution. In an exclusive interview, he shared his vision for the District Grand Lodge of Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of dispelling misconceptions about Freemasonry and fostering an image of Masons as devout believers and practitioners of brotherly love, relief, and truth.
Personal Life
Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu is a member of the Ancient and Prestigious Agbalanze Society of Onitsha, with the title of Ezennia. He is happily married with children, and his hobbies include reading, table tennis, and boxing.
Contributions to Education and Society
In addition to his legal career, Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu has contributed to education and society by delivering lectures and writing essays at universities, seminars, workshops, and socio-cultural fora. His expertise and experience have made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in various settings.
As a devout Christian, Dr. Ikpeazu also serves as the General Overseer of Our Saviour’s Church in Onitsha. His faith and commitment to service have further cemented his reputation as a well-rounded and respected individual within his community and beyond.
Professional Memberships
Dr. Ikpeazu is a Fellow at the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a member of the Nigerian Body of Benchers. He has held positions within the Nigerian Bar Association, including serving as Chairman of the Onitsha Branch and a National Executive Council (NEC) member of the national body.
Media Coverage and Recognition
Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu has been featured in various media outlets, such as the maiden edition of The Grand Design magazine, where he discussed his plans for the District Grand Lodge of Nigeria and his vision for the future of Freemasonry in the country. Members of the Editorial Board for The Grand Design include VW Busola Holloway, Odili Ujubuonu, Emeka Opara, Daniel Afilaka, Austin Areh, and Kelvin Nwaekpe.
In summary, Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu has distinguished himself as a prominent legal practitioner, leader in the District Grand Lodge of Nigeria, and a respected member of his community. With his numerous accomplishments and contributions to society, he has left a lasting impact on the legal profession and the lives of those he has served.
References:
- Ikpeazu Chambers. (n.d.). Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu. Retrieved from https://ikpeazuchambers.com/dr-onyechi-ikpeazu/
- District Grand Lodge of Nigeria. (n.d.). The District Grand Master. Retrieved from https://districtgrandlodgeofnigeria.com/the-district-grand-master/
- InlandTown Online. (n.d.). Masons: Beacons and Lighthouses of their faiths and professions. Retrieved from https://www.inlandtown.com/masons-beacons-and-lighthouses-of-their-faiths-and-professions/
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