Adamu Maikori
Adamu Audu Maikori | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1942 Dura, Hamland, Nigeria |
| Died | 2020-09-08 |
| Occupation(s) | Attorney, banker, politician |
| Years active | 1972–2020 |
| Known for | First native lawyer from Southern Kaduna; Director of Public Prosecutions; Executive Director at Nigeria Merchant Bank; founder of North South Bank |
| Notable work | Chair of ECWA committee for An Introduction to the History of SIM/ECWA in Nigeria, 1893-1993 |
Adamu Audu Maikori (1942 – 8 September 2020) was a distinguished Nigerian attorney, banker, and political figure. To commemorate his status as the first native lawyer from Southern Kaduna, the Fundamental Rights section of Nigeria's constitution was translated into his native language, Hyam, in September 2020 by the Kaduna-based organization House of Justice. This translated document was formally handed over at the Kpop Ham's palace in Kwoi by CEO Gloria Mabeiam Ballason, Esq.
Life and education
Born in 1942 in Dura, Hamland, Maikori commenced his schooling at Maude Primary School in Kwoi. He furthered his studies internationally, attending institutions in London, Germany, and Harvard Business School in the United States. He was married to La'aitu (née Gyet Maude) from the Ham Royal lineage. Together, they had five children, among them lawyers Yahaya Maikori and Audu Maikori. At the time of his death, he was survived by three grandchildren and a wide circle of protégés.
Working career
As the pioneering lawyer originating from Southern Kaduna, Maikori gained admission to the Nigerian Bar in 1972. His professional journey included roles as a legal practitioner, educator, flight cadet with the Nigerian Air Force, public prosecutor, and banking executive.
He held the position of Director of Public Prosecutions within the Ministry of Justice and subsequently served as Chief Registrar for the Kaduna-Katsina High Court. Transitioning to the financial sector, he became Executive Director at Nigeria Merchant Bank and was instrumental in founding North South Bank.
Additionally, he chaired the ECWA committee responsible for producing An Introduction to the History of SIM/ECWA in Nigeria, 1893-1993.
Political career
In 1990, Maikori sought the Social Democratic Party nomination for the 1991 Kaduna State gubernatorial election but was defeated in the primaries by Prof. Ango Abdullahi, who received 59.7% of votes compared to Maikori’s 21%. He also made unsuccessful bids for the Senate seat representing Kaduna South Senatorial District in both 2003 and 2007, losing to Isaiah Balat and Caleb Zagi respectively.
Demise
His passing on 8 September 2020 at age 78 was announced by his son Audu Maikori, co-founder of the Chocolate City Group.
Legacy
Reflecting on his father’s influence, Audu stated: "He instilled in me values of diligence, integrity, honesty, and faith. My venture into entertainment was deeply inspired by his passion for music and that of my late mother—he served as a choirmaster."