A Life of Presence and Purpose
On October 10, 1959, in the quiet town of Idohanlen‑Ubiaja, Esan South East of Edo State, a child was born to Apostle Akhere Paul Odiase and Madam Caroline Adagha. His name was Lawrence Ebhohimen Odiase. From the beginning, his mother called him “Odiase Special” — a son of promise, destined for greatness.
As a boy, Lawrence was bold, intelligent, and full of life. At Oyomon Primary School and later St. Benedict Catholic School, Ubiaja, he showed early brilliance, earning his Primary School Leaving Certificate in 1974. By 1982, he had graduated from Emu Grammar School with distinction in the WAEC GCE. His classmates called him “Billy Ocean” — a nickname that captured his charisma and rhythm of life.
But Lawrence’s hunger for knowledge never waned. He pursued higher education relentlessly:
- 1995: Advanced Diploma in Public Administration, ABU Zaria.
- 2002: Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting, Imo State University (with distinction).
- 2004: MBA in Management, Imo State University.
- 2008–2010: National and Higher National Diplomas in Accounting, Our Saviour Institute of Science, Agriculture & Technology, Enugu (both with distinction).
- Later, he became a Chartered Accountant and Member of ICAN, reaching the pinnacle of his profession.
Public Service Years
In 1983, Lawrence moved to Lagos in search of greener pastures. He began humbly as a Clerical Officer in the Internal Audit Department of the Post & Telecommunication (P&T), later NIPOST. Over 35 years, he rose through the ranks with unblemished integrity, becoming Senior Principal Auditor.
In 2009, he was honored as Most Outstanding Staff of the Year (Edo Territory). His national impact culminated in his appointment as Executive Chairman of the Enforcement of Stamp Duty Act in Nigeria — a role that showcased his brilliance and trustworthiness.
Faith and Devotion
Faith was his compass. At St. Jude Catholic Church, Ikpoba Hill, he served as Finance Council Chairman, Zone 5 Chairman, and chaired the Parish Adult Harvest Thanksgiving Committee multiple times. After retirement, he returned to St. Benedict Catholic Church, Ubiaja, remaining a pillar of faith. His Christianity was lived daily — through compassion, generosity, and service.
Philanthropy and Vision
Lawrence was “generous to a fault.” He built a local market at Iwogban, Ikpoba Hill, a community borehole, and a Cassava Processing Factory at Lucky Way. He attracted World Bank support for road infrastructure, leading to the naming of Odiase Street in Ikpoba Hill. Through the FADAMA Program, he empowered countless families.
He never hijacked or siphoned public relief items for himself or his family. Instead, he ensured that every item was distributed fairly to those in need. This rare selflessness made him a politician of uncommon integrity.
The “Esan General”
As a stalwart of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Lawrence served as LGA Chairman for eight consecutive years unopposed. He never lost the two polling units under his control to opposition — a testament to his loyalty and strategy. He was known as a “Political Bulldozer.”
When insecurity threatened Esanland, he rose as Deputy Coordinator of the Edo State Joint Security Vigilante Network (EDJCVSN) for Edo Central. In 2021, he helped launch the Atanakpa Security Network, a specialized regional defense force. He stood on the frontlines, bridging state security, traditional institutions, and local hunters. His courage earned him the revered title “The Esan General.”
Family and Legacy
In 1982, Lawrence married his high school sweetheart, Mrs. Monica Eboziegbe Odiase (née Okoh). Their love was anchored in the affectionate title “D” (Dear). Together, they raised five children and celebrated seven grandchildren. To his wife, he was “Ughegbe” — her mirror. To his children, he was a hero. To his siblings, he was a father figure. To his friends, he was the dependable Eku ku me ku President.
Final Chapter
On 14 March 2026, at the age of 66, Hon. Lawrence Ebhohimen Odiase’s earthly journey came to a close. But his story does not end here. His legacy lives on in the roads he built, the widows he protected, the security he championed, and the countless lives he touched.
He remains, forever:
Hon. Lawrence Ebhohimen Odiase — “The Great.”
Reference Note
All information in this biography of Hon. Lawrence Ebhohimen Odiase (1959–2026) was compiled from family archives, memorial records, and testimonies provided by his younger brother, Mr. Godwin Nanakumo, together with contributions from close relatives, friends, and community members. This booklet stands as both a historical record and a heartfelt tribute to his life of faith, service, and enduring legacy.
