In a detailed LinkedIn statement dated Thursday, October 17, 2024, Dr. Abasi Ene-Obong, the co-founder and former CEO of the African genomics firm 54gene, addressed the speculation and rumors that have been swirling since his resignation from the company. He took this opportunity to correct the record regarding his exit and to share the personal adversities he endured during that period.
Ene-Obong, who stepped down from his CEO role at 54gene in 2022 and from the company’s board in early 2023, characterized the ensuing internal discord as akin to “a hostile takeover.” He utilized the platform to refute allegations of financial misconduct, affirming that 54gene had not levied such accusations against him.
He referenced a TechCrunch article that initially reported these claims, which was subsequently retracted with an apology from the publication. Ene-Obong lamented that such retractions seldom reach as wide an audience as the original false reports.
On a more personal note, Ene-Obong disclosed the profound losses he suffered in the months following his departure from 54gene. He mourned the passing of his father, who was his first introduction to genetics and a significant influence on his career path, as well as the death of a cousin he was very close to. These bereavements, he revealed, precipitated a battle with mental health issues.
Describing the period of 2022/2023 as the most challenging of his life, Ene-Obong expressed the pain of losing his company, being wrongfully accused, and bearing the brunt of blame for situations beyond his control.
He also shared that in the wake of these events, he chose to withdraw from the public eye, including a temporary deactivation of his social media profiles. Ene-Obong clarified that his silence was a choice for self-care and not an indication of guilt, stating, “Silence doesn’t always mean guilt. Bad things happen to good people all the time. I chose silence to stay above the drama, not because of guilt.”
Despite these tribulations, he noted that the ordeal served as a catalyst for personal growth, helping him eliminate the non-essential from his life.
While Ene-Obong’s post did not directly comment on the current state of 54gene, which Innovation Village reported as having ceased operations in September 2023 following financial difficulties, it provided insight into the personal impact of the company’s challenges on him.
Moving forward, the former 54gene CEO is now at the helm of Syndicate Bio, a new genomics venture he founded in September 2023. The company is dedicated to fostering inclusive genomic advancements, with a particular focus on Africa.
