The Coalition for the Immortalisation of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu has urged the Federal Government to honour the late former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) for his pivotal role in overseeing the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Describing Nwosu as a “distinguished scholar” and a “renowned political scientist,” the coalition emphasized his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s democratic process.
During a press conference at the Ladi Lawal Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday, the group reiterated its call for national recognition of Nwosu, who passed away in October 2024 at the age of 83. His burial is scheduled for March 28, 2025, in his hometown of Ajali, Orumba Local Government Area, Anambra State.
The press briefing was led by Collins Ugwu, Executive Director of the Citizens Network for Stability & Justice. He was accompanied by Mazi Maduka, a Public Affairs and Policy Analyst, and Chief Everest Ezenwoke, the South West Coordinator of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
Ugwu stressed the need to honour Nwosu’s legacy, highlighting his integrity, courage, and dedication to free and fair elections. As NEC chairman from 1989 to 1993, Nwosu presided over the June 12 election, which is widely regarded as Nigeria’s most credible poll, believed to have been won by the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola before it was annulled by then-military Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida.
“We strongly believe that a man of Prof. Nwosu’s impeccable character, fearless resolve, and outstanding contributions deserves to be celebrated. His integrity was unparalleled, and his impact on Nigeria’s electoral process remains unmatched,” Ugwu stated.
He recounted the immense political pressure Nwosu faced while conducting the election and how he bravely stood by the results despite threats. Ugwu also praised Nwosu for his refusal to engage in corrupt practices, noting that he returned over N500 million in unspent funds to the government.
“It is a cruel irony that despite his groundbreaking contributions, Nwosu suffered from the aftermath of the annulled election,” Ugwu lamented. “He was a victim of the very system he worked to strengthen, and it is time Nigeria properly acknowledges him.”
The coalition called on President Bola Tinubu to honour Nwosu posthumously with a national award such as the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) or the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) for his selfless service to democracy.
Additionally, they proposed that a national monument, such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja, a major roadway, or a National Freedom Park, be named after him.
The coalition also urged Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, to take steps to honour Nwosu in a manner befitting his legacy, given their shared academic background at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Expressing hope for recognition, Ugwu emphasized that Nwosu played a monumental role in shaping Nigeria’s democracy.
“Prof. Nwosu was a beacon of integrity and fairness. He redefined our electoral process in a way that has yet to be replicated,” Ugwu stated. “To truly uphold the values he championed, we must acknowledge his contributions and ensure his legacy endures.”
The group called on Nigerians to support the cause, stressing that democracy should reflect and honour those who fought for its credibility.
