By Our Correspondent
In a remarkable story of resilience and triumph over adversity, Mr. Edward Osikem Okhumaile has successfully completed a Master’s degree in Data Science, despite surviving multiple life-threatening assassination attempts in Nigeria.
In 2022, Edward was shot by unknown assailants in what many believe was a targeted attack linked to his outspoken stance against organized and systematic mass murders and infiltration of terrorists into South-south Nigeria communities and the alleged covert encouragement to these terror attacks by the government.
At the time, he was actively using his spare time to educate the public on the dangers and infiltration strategies of terrorists and raise awareness about covert attacks and human rights abuses taking place in Nigeria’s South-South region as it was done in Northern Nigeria and the Middle belt.
According to sources close to Edward, his activism focused on exposing the untold suffering in local communities—ranging from rape and murder to systematic suppression, all of which he linked to both terrorist groups and suspected complicit elements within the government.
He was known for encouraging citizens to practice self-defence and stay informed about the hidden threats facing their communities during local community engagements.
Though the identities of his attackers remain unknown, Edward narrowly escaped with his life and later fled Nigeria after surviving yet another attempt on his life, although with some gunshots wounds.
The second attack occurred while he was still recovering from the shock of an earlier attempt to kidnap or possibly murder him, sending a chilling message to those who dared to speak out. Even at the time of this report, he still carries over twenty pellets in his body from the attacks.
“It was clear that someone wanted me dead, and I couldn’t tell if it was the terrorists or someone in power. But I knew I had to survive—for my family, for my poor people, and for the truth,” Edward said in a brief statement.
He remains burdened by the rapes, genocides, injuries, gruesome slaughter, and many other untold atrocities people without voice go through in the country without even a mention in the news.
Presently residing in the United Kingdom, Edward has not only found refuge but has also achieved academic success against all odds. He recently graduated with a distinction and a Master’s in Data Science (with advance practice), a field he believes will help him contribute meaningfully to global development, policy, and security.
Edward’s story has been described by peers and supporters as a “beacon of courage” in the face of tyranny. Despite the trauma and uncertainty that marked his journey, he remains focused on building a better future through knowledge, innovation, and continued advocacy.
Edward’s achievements are a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of education. Before having to leave the shores of the country, he was the south-south coordinator of Nigeria Information Technology Professionals in Public and Civil Service (NITPCS), thus overseeing the digital expansion in six states of the Federation.
As for the perpetrators of the violence he endured, no one has been brought to justice, and the questions surrounding the attacks remain unanswered.
But Edward is no longer looking back. His sights are now firmly set on using data to drive change in a world that desperately needs it.
