A professor in Economics and the Current Dean of students in University of Benin, Professor Clement Ighodaro in an interview tells All Campus Show correspondents his background motivation, challenges and his opinion on the recent election rigging allegations throwed at the Professors.
HOW WAS CHILDHOOD LIKE FOR YOU?
My childhood was interesting and growing up was fun for me and my siblings.
WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND LIKE?
My late father was a monogamist and I am the first born of 11 children, although one has passed on. I attended the Holy cross primary school which is now oghola primary school, and after, I attended Edo college. I further engaged in menial jobs before I gained admission to study Economics and Statistics in the University of Benin, where I also acquired my masters and Ph.D in Economics and MBA.
Interestingly, I was opportuned to be a beneficiary of the world bank scholarship under Africa economic consultion Kenya.
I am also happily married with children.
WHAT WERE THE CHALLENGES YOU FACED WHILE COMING UP IN THE ACADEMIC INDUSTRY?
Aside from the Financial constraints, I had two major challenges. I had once missed an opportunity to work in Shell due to the lack of a degree.
Also, there was some of my friends who had also entered the University before me, I remember them having a conversation which I contributed in, but unfortunately, I was ridiculed for not having the experience of attending a University. However, it will amaze you to know that some years later, I taught one of them in the University.
With these experiences, I was greatly challenged and determined to go back to School.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE LECTURING AS CAREER?
Right from my early days, although I didn’t like teaching as a career but I had always loved imparting people. For instance I am a taekwondoist and I taught people even in UNIBEN. As a matter of fact I, in my undergraduate days, I became a Tutor in Economics , this was where the passion was ignited. Although I never thought I will be a University lecturer. I started my Career officially as Lecturer 1 in the University of Lagos, before I resigned to continue in the University of Benin.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE PROCESS OF ATTAINING YOUR PROFESSORSHIP?
It was quite difficult but easy. This is because I was made to produce publications in local journals, National and international Journals which required a lot of time and researches. Although as at when I was a senior lecturer, I already had some of the qualifications. In the process of attaining Professorship, my Social Life was forfeited, as I had to be focused, during the period, but by God’s grace, I am here today.
PROFESSORSHIP IS THE HIGHEST ACADEMIC RANKING. RECENTLY, THERE HAVE BEEN ALLEGATIONS ON PROFESSORS FOR RIGGING ELECTION. WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON THIS?
Well, I do not know how true that allegation is, but If it is true, it is disappointing. There are certain stages in life that you do not soil your hands.
Professors are well respected in the Society and there are certain things they should not be found doing. Irrespective, it should not be generalized that all Professors are involved in such corrupt practices.
I Know of Several Professors who will not compromise their integrity for any reason. One of them is My VC, Prof. Mrs. Lilian Salami. She is very trustworthy and posseses integrity. Therefore she has a reputable name that she maintains and I can unapologetically attest to that.