Tele Ikuru


Telenyem Renner Ikuru, commonly known as Tele Ikuru, is a Nigerian engineer and politician. He was first elected Deputy Governor in 2007 on a PDP ticket with Gov. Celestine Omehia. After the court annulled Omehia's election that year, he was picked to serve under Chibuike Amaechi and was reelected to the office in 2011.
Ikuru was among state officials who joined the All Progressive Congress with Gov. Amaechi in 2013. He later defected back to the People's Democratic Party on 22 March 2015.

Early life and education

Tele Ikuru was born and raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. His family roots are originally from Ikuru town Andoni. In 1992, he earned a Bachelor of Technology degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology.

Career

Tele Ikuru was a Principal Technical Assistant at the Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Station during his National Youth Service Corps programme. After completing his service, Ikuru worked for various investment and construction companies, then taught at Kenneth Commercial School and Allenco Comprehensive Secondary School. He also worked at the Logos Community Bank in Port Harcourt. In 1996, he got a job with the Shell Petroleum Development Company, where he worked as an Oil/Chemical Spill Clean-Up Supervisor until 1999.
Tele Ikuru served as Commissioner of Agriculture and Natural Resources from 1999 to 2003. He was moved to Housing and Urban Development as pioneer Commissioner from 2004–06. In 2007, Ikuru ran for, and was elected Deputy Governor alongside gubernatorial candidate Celestine Omehia. After their election was annulled that year, he was adopted and served two terms in office under Governor Chibuike Amaechi.

Personal life

Tele Ikuru is married to Dr Mina Ikuru who is a brilliant medical practitioner in pediatrics. They are happily married with four children.

Honors and awards

Ikuru has received several awards and honors, which include: