By Anyi Kings
Published On the Biafra Post
May 10, 2026
Few leaders in post-war Eastern Nigeria left a footprint as deep and enduring as Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe—fondly called “Dee Sam” and forever remembered as “The Weeping Governor.” As we continue the countdown to the 30th of May Biafra Memorial, it is fitting to honor a man whose life symbolized service, sacrifice, and uncommon dedication to his people.
Born in 1929 in Avutu, then part of British Nigeria, Mbakwe rose through the ranks as a lawyer, statesman, and visionary leader before becoming the first democratically elected governor of Imo State on October 1, 1979. He served until December 31, 1983, and within those four years, he built a legacy that many still regard as unmatched.
Mbakwe earned the emotional nickname “The Weeping Governor” after publicly shedding tears while appealing to the federal authorities to urgently intervene during the devastating Ndiegoro flood in Aba. Those tears were not a sign of weakness—they were the tears of a leader who genuinely carried the pain of his people.
A Builder of Modern Infrastructure
Governor Mbakwe understood that development begins with infrastructure. Under his administration, massive road construction and asphalt-tarring projects transformed major towns such as Owerri, Aba, Umuahia, Okigwe, and Afikpo. Decades later, many of these roads remain a testimony to quality governance and long-term planning..
Champion of Education
In 1981, Mbakwe founded Imo State University, creating opportunities for higher education and intellectual growth for generations of young Nigerians. Though its original structure later evolved, the institution remains one of his mosenduring gifts to the people.
Driving Industrial Growth
Mbakwe was not only a politician—he was a visionary industrialist. His administration established:
An aluminum smelting plant in Inyishi
A paint manufacturing factory in Abor-Mbaise
A power generation plant in Amaraku
These projects reflected his determination to make the old Imo State economically self-reliant and industrially competitive.
Agriculture and Food Security
Understanding the importance of food production and employment, his government established:
Imo Modern Poultry Farm in Avutu
Ogwe Golden Chicken Farm in Asa
These agricultural initiatives created jobs, boosted local production, and strengthened rural development.
The Cleanest State in Nigeria
Governor Mbakwe’s passion for environmental sanitation was revolutionary. He created structured sanitation agencies, divided the state into operational zones, and brought in technical experts to ensure effective implementation. Under his watch, Imo State earned national recognition as one of the cleanest states in Nigeria.
A Life of Humility and Service
Even after leaving office, Mbakwe remained committed to learning and public service, later earning a doctorate in political science. He passed away on January 6, 2004, in his hometown of Avutu, but his legacy continues to inspire generations across Alaigbo and beyond.
As we approach the 30th of May Biafra Memorial, we remember not just a governor, but a patriot… a builder… a servant-leader whose tears, vision, and sacrifices still speak today.
“Some leaders occupy office. Others build legacies. Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe built a legacy.”
— Anyi Kings May 10, 2026
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