From Aspiring Driver to Lawyer: The inspiring journey of Elikem Kwaku Ahialey

At the Cedi Conference Centre of the University of Ghana, Legon where the General Legal Council ushered a new batch of lawyers into the legal profession, one story stood out, not just for its triumph but for its depth of struggle, identity, and purpose.

Among the newly enrolled lawyers was Barrister Elikem Kwaku Ahialey, whose journey to the Bar reflects resilience shaped by hardship, determination and a deep desire to serve society.

Barrister Ahialey disclosed that although his official certificate bears the name Kingsford Kwaku Ahialey, he has formally changed his name to Elikem Kwaku Ahialey through an affidavit.

According to him, the decision was driven by a desire to embrace his Ghanaian identity and cultural roots.

“For me, I wanted a name that tells where I come from,” he explained. “If I mention my name anywhere in the world, people should immediately know I am Ghanaian and even trace the region I come from.”

Beyond the name change lies a compelling life story one that began with humble beginnings and modest ambitions.

Growing up in a deprived environment, Ahialey said his earliest dream was to become a driver, a profession he admired for the skill and precision it required. However, his academic potential, recognised by teachers and peers, gradually redirected his path.

“I was told I could go further,” he recalled.

“But coming from where I come from, even getting basic meals was not guaranteed. There was no structure like breakfast, lunch, or supper—I ate whatever I found.”

His turning point came during his time at Adisadel College in Cape Coast, where exposure to students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds broadened his perspective on life.

He later pursued a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at the University of Cape Coast, followed by a Graduate Diploma in Education.

He returned to teach at his alma mater before advancing his academic journey with an MPhil in Nuclear and Radiochemistry from the University of Ghana.

This earned him a position as a research scientist at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission.

He later transitioned into a communications role after obtaining a Master’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Ghana.

Despite his achievements in science, a personal experience would ultimately redirect his path toward law.

He recounted an incident involving his nephew, who was arrested and allegedly mistreated by the police.

The experience exposed him to the challenges faced by individuals without legal representation.

“When I asked the police if my nephew would be kept beyond 48 hours, they asked if I was a lawyer. When I said no, their attitude changed,” he said.

“That moment stayed with me.”

Unable to secure immediate legal assistance at the time, he resolved to study law himself.

Inspired by Glanville Williams’ book Learning the Law, he applied to the University of Ghana School of Law for his LLB, progressed to the Ghana School of Law, and successfully completed his legal training.

Now a newly sworn-in lawyer, Barrister Ahialey says his mission is to use the law as a tool for social justice.

“I want to fight for the underprivileged—for those who don’t have a voice,” he stated.

“Many people are cheated simply because they do not have access to a lawyer. I want to be available to such people.”

He emphasised his intention to undertake pro bono legal services, acknowledging the sacrifices involved but stressing that service to humanity remains central to the legal profession.

His journey was not without challenges. Balancing demanding legal studies with family responsibilities required discipline and sacrifice, often studying late into the night after attending to his children.

“Law is very daunting,” he admitted. “But once you set your mind to it, you can achieve it.”

A politically exposed individual and a member of the New Patriotic Party, Ahialey also expressed belief in the role of politics as a means of transforming society, although his immediate focus remains on legal advocacy.

Reflecting on his journey, he underscored the importance of access to education particularly free secondary education—which he described as a crucial foundation for many young people.

“There are many people who could be better than me today if they had the same opportunity,” he noted.

To young people facing similar challenges, his advice is straightforward: take the first step.

“Buy the forms,” he urged. “Don’t wait until you have everything. There is always someone who will support your journey. Just start and the rest will follow.”

As the ceremony concluded, surrounded by family, friends and colleagues from diverse backgrounds, Barrister Elikem Kwaku Ahialey stood not just as a lawyer, but as a symbol of perseverance—proof that determination and opportunity can transform even the most unlikely beginnings into remarkable success.



Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe on Ghana's past, present and the road ahead