I was falsely accused, nearly ruined, but God lifted me – Dare Osamo

In the dynamic world of business and leadership, challenges often serve as the ultimate test of character, resilience, and integrity. For Dare Osamo, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Impact Energy and Logistics Ltd, the path to success has been marked not only by professional achievements but also by profound personal trials. With over 16 years of experience spanning banking, oil and gas, aviation, and corporate finance, Osamo has built a reputation as a strategic leader and visionary entrepreneur.

Yet his journey was not without turbulence. At the peak of his career, a major business dispute tested his values, integrity, and faith. Falsely accused and embroiled in a prolonged legal battle, he faced one of the darkest chapters of his life. Through perseverance, faith, and unwavering commitment to truth, he emerged stronger, wiser, and more determined.

In this interview, Osamo, the former Managing Director of Star Orient Nigeria Ltd, shares insights into his early beginnings, rise in the corporate world, the ordeal that nearly broke him, and the lessons he learned about resilience, trust, and divine justice.

Tell us a bit about your background and early life.

“Thank you. I grew up in Ekiti State with my maternal grandmother. She was a hardworking entrepreneur and an excellent cook. I spent most of my childhood with her, and those memories remain very dear to me. She taught me discipline, hard work, and the importance of standing up for myself.

I completed my primary and secondary education in Ekiti and graduated with some of the best results in my community. Those early years shaped the person I am today.”

What early experiences influenced your career choice?

“After secondary school, I moved to Festac, Lagos, to live with my uncle, who worked with the Federal Housing Authority. Nearby, there was a community bank called Festac Community Bank, where I started as an office assistant.

The chairman, the late Mr. Olowole, had a great influence on me. Calm, intelligent, and deeply respected, he inspired me to pursue accountancy. He even helped me obtain my first ICAN form, marking the start of my professional journey.

What drove your higher education choices?

My education was guided by a desire to grow, learn, and build a strong professional network. I chose programs that offered global exposure and connected me with a powerful alumni network. That decision has been instrumental in my professional growth.

Who has been the most influential person in your life?

Without a doubt, my grandmother. Her strength, compassion, and determination continue to inspire me every day.

How did your professional journey begin?

I became a chartered accountant while still in college. Over time, I held key roles in stockbroking, investment banking, and commercial banking, managing multimillion- and even multibillion-naira portfolios. Later, I transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding advisory and energy companies, which broadened my leadership experience and allowed me to work with top-tier clients.

How do you define success?

“For me, success isn’t measured by money. It’s about the number of lives you impact, the people you mentor, and the value you create for society. Money is secondary; real success comes from solving problems and improving lives.”

What do you enjoy outside work?

“I’m a quiet person. I love reading, writing, football, and occasional workouts. Mostly, I spend my free time learning and reflecting.”

What advice would you give your younger self?

“I’d tell myself to be assertive, not aggressive. Let your results and voice be seen. Don’t just do the work—make an impact.”

How was the transition from banking to entrepreneurship?

“It felt natural. My experience in banking and advisory gave me insight into how successful people think and operate. Those lessons prepared me to launch my own ventures.”

What has been the most challenging moment in your career?

My greatest challenge came at Star Orient Nigeria Ltd, where I served as Managing Director. I was appointed by a friend to join the board. After four years, we brought in a joint-venture partner. Within nine months, everything turned upside down.

The new partner opposed me, and other directors pressured me to deny the founder who brought me in. I refused, saying, ‘No, I can’t lie to protect greed.’ That refusal sparked a serious crisis that nearly ruined my career and reputation.

Can you explain what you mean by crisis?

“They ganged up against me, filing petitions with the police, EFCC, and Special Fraud Unit. My name was everywhere in the newspapers, accused of embezzling from a struggling company. Everything I had built—my reputation, the company’s progress—was under threat.”

What impact did it have on you personally?

“It was devastating. My business partners turned against me, I was forced out of the company with nothing, and my reputation was questioned. For over four years, I moved from one investigating agency to another. It was exhausting, humiliating, and deeply painful.”

How was the case resolved?

“On January 24, 2024, before Justice Ogala of the Lagos State High Court, I was discharged. That day brought immense relief. I thanked God, my family, and the friends who stood by me during those dark years.”

How did this experience affect you?

It nearly broke me. My health suffered, my marriage collapsed, and my business was scattered. Everything I had worked for over forty years was lost due to greed and power struggles. I had to start over. But through it all, I found strength in God.

What key lessons did you learn?

Three lessons: God is greater than man, never lose hope as light will come and in business, there are no permanent friends, only permanent interests. People act according to where their benefit lies.

How has it changed your approach to people?

I now judge people by actions, not words. That experience reshaped my view of loyalty and reinforced reliance on God rather than men. It made me stronger, wiser, and more cautious.

What message would you give others facing tough times?

Don’t give up. Keep your faith. Guard your integrity. Truth will always prevail. People may try to pull you down, but if your heart is clean, God will lift you again.