So much research data has been generated in the past, especially when the use of a system for storing data was not a common practice. This data was written on by papers, and in most cases, it was treated as personal data to the primary investigator. With the emergence of computers, the issue of data ownership has become more of a concern. By 2013, the concept of Open Access was accepted by many countries and research institutions. In practice, the emerging economy scientists seems to be averse to this. Many research centers in Africa record massive failure at publishing quality datasets into the public domain. The main reason is that researchers would rather provide incorrect and inconsistent datasets to the public when compelled by higher authorities to comply with Open Data, than maintain quality data for the same purpose. The issue of intellectual property, plagiarism, stewardship and governance is viewed as a major concern for these researchers. This paper reviewed the intrigues behind the open data war and how an institution embarked on a journey to win the war. The paper addressed the strategic plan adopted by the research institution, and how the success story is being adopted by other research centers to fight the open data war.