Imo State Born Industrialist & Foremost Politician, Engr. Dr. Ezekiel Izuogu Is Dead

NJOKU MACDONALD OBINNA

Africa’s foremost car inventor, researcher and manufacturer of Z-600, Engr. Dr. Ezekiel Izuogu, joined his ancestors in the early hours of Saturday, July 18, 2020 .

Chief (Engr.) Ezekiel  Izuogu, PhD,  was a scientist, a researcher of note, foremost politician and inventor of Nigeria’s first indigenous car, Z-600, that took the world by surprise during its first official public unveiling .

The Izuogu Z-600 prototype was the first indigenous Nigerian car. It was also the first automobile of indigenous all-African technology. Launched in 1997, it caused a stir in the hearts of many Nigerians, who hoped for a personal car and stimulated the Nigerian media.

“I will transform Imo to the Japan of Africa” was one of the most striking and endearing statements made by then Imo front liner for the Third Republic Governorship election in the state.

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, trained Electrical Engineer and Researcher, spent most of his youthful years, energy and time on research and development in the area of emagneto-dynamics.

During his days, he strongly advocated that Nigerian born  intellectuals and researchers especially, in the private sector, should be properly supported and included in the Research Funds established by the Federal Government; since that is what drives technological advancement and development in the industrial world.

While he did not fare so well in politics, he would be remembered as a man whose sense of integrity and uncompromising stand on politics of ideology endeared him to many Nigerians around the world.

He was reported to have refused to bow before the altar of ‘Political Baal’ by then APP and SDP party chieftains during the Third Republic political electioneering which he was tipped for as a possible winner.

He is from Akokwa Town in Ideato North Local Government Area, Imo State.

Njoku Macdonald ObinnaPublisher ,
4thestatereporters.com