Professor John Ohaka was born into the esteemed Ohaka Royal Family of Ibaa, in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State. His early years were shaped by the strong moral and educational foundation laid by his parents, Elder Godspower and Florence Ohaka. He had his primary education at the Central State School I, Ibaa; and his secondary education at the Government Secondary School, Borokiri, Port Harcourt, which he later completed at the Uvawhu Comprehensive High School, Ibaa. Professor Ohaka has an extensive higher education journey that traverses two highly-coveted but interconnected career paths. He trained as an accountant obtaining from the University of Port Harcourt, a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Accounting, a Master of Business Administration (MBA), and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in accounting. Motivated by a desire to further distinguish himself professionally, expand his career opportunities and deliver unique values, Prof John Ohaka enrolled into the law programme of this great university (RSU) and earned the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, and was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar as a legal practitioner. He would later pursue a Master of Laws (LLM) degree, further strengthening his already impressive academic credentials in the professions of accounting and law.
Professor John Ohaka joined the services of this university as Lecturer grade II in 2005 and rose through the ranks to become a professor of accounting and taxation in 2021. He has to his credit over one hundred and ten (110) published articles in reputable academic journals, as well as numerous papers presented at conferences, workshops and seminars. His scholarly works have been cited severally by other researchers as seen on google scholar, significantly shaping the discourse in accounting, taxation, and forensic accounting. He also has authored or co-authored five books, further cementing his status as a leading authority in his field. As an educator and mentor, Professor Ohaka has supervised several postgraduate students, including forty (40) PhD dissertations.
Professor Ohaka has served the university community in various roles, including:
- Students’ Advisor (CCE Program and Regular Program)
- Secretary, ASUU, Rivers State University
- Chairman, Department of Accounting Research and Publications Committee
- Member, Postgraduate Committee, Faculty of Management Sciences
- Member, SUG Election Committee
- Member, Faculty Sports Committee
- Member, Board of Faculty of Administration and Management
- Faculty Representative, Institute of Foundation Studies (IFS)
- Postgraduate Coordinator, Faculty of Administration and Management
- Coordinator, Center for Continuing Education, Department of Accounting
- Head of Department, Accounting, Faculty of Administration and Management
- Member, Rivers State University Lectures Committee
- Member, Joint Council/Senate Committee for the Selection of Vice Chancellor & Bursar, Registrar
- And currently, the Dean, Faculty of Administration and Management
Professor Ohaka is a well-rounded Professional with Extensive Experience Spanning Business and Entrepreneurship, Legal Practice, Political Analyst, Strategic Investment Manager, Accounting Practices, Tax Consultancy, Financial Consultancy, Management Consultancy, and Forensic Accountant. His expertise and versatility have earned him widespread recognition and respect in both academic and professional circles. He is a member and fellow of several professional bodies among which are:
- Associate, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Nigeria (ICPAN)
- Associate, Association of Certified System Accountants, USA (ACCSA)
- Associate, Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN)
- Associate, The Academy of Management Nigeria (TAMN)
- Associate, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN)
- Fellow, Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Examiners of Nigeria (CIFCFN)
- Fellow, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) – Fellow
- Member, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
- Fellow, Institute of Business Diplomacy and Strategic Management (FIBDSM)
- The 110th Inaugural Lecturer of his university.
- A Prolific Scholar and Formidable Researcher
- A Mentor, Academic Leader and Trail Blazer
- An Accountant & a Barrister of the Supreme Court of Nigeria
Professional associates and friends of John Ohaka will describe him as a perfect gentleman, who is humble, amiable and dedicated to the advancement of knowledge. His is as a loving husband and wonderful father to his three lovely children.
