The remains of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, the former Chairman of Nigeria’s National Electoral Commission (NEC), were laid to rest on Friday in his hometown of Ajalli, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State. The funeral ceremony, which took place at St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Ajalli, was attended by several prominent Nigerians, who gathered to honor his profound contributions to the nation’s democracy.
Nwosu, who passed away at the age of 83 on October 24, 2024, in a U.S. hospital, is remembered for his pioneering role in Nigerian electoral reforms, particularly for overseeing the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election. His leadership at NEC, which later became the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), remains one of the most significant periods in Nigeria’s electoral history.
The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, sent his heartfelt tributes to the late Nwosu, recognizing the monumental contributions he made to the nation’s democracy. Tinubu, who was represented at the funeral by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, said Nwosu played a crucial role in shaping the democratic governance of Nigeria. He emphasized that Nwosu’s legacy would continue to be celebrated, noting that his efforts had a lasting impact on the electoral system and democracy in Nigeria.
During his speech, Umahi conveyed President Tinubu’s deep respect for Nwosu’s work and highlighted that the government would continue to honor the late professor’s contributions. Tinubu also noted that the family of the deceased had made two requests, which were under discussion, and that the outcome would be communicated to the Governor of Anambra State. In conclusion, he prayed for the peaceful repose of Nwosu’s soul and encouraged his family and loved ones to take solace in the legacy he left behind.
Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, was among those who paid tribute to Nwosu during the funeral service. Soludo commended Nwosu’s instrumental role in Nigeria’s democratic journey, calling him an irreplaceable icon of democracy. He also shared the plans of the five governors from the Southeast to meet with President Tinubu to discuss the possibility of conferring a national honor on the late professor.
“We must learn to change our style and devise new ways of dialogue to get what we need from the government at the center and not through fighting and attacks,” Soludo said. He added that the Southeast Governors were confident that their request for a national honor for Nwosu would be granted.
Soludo also spoke on behalf of the people of Anambra and the Old Aguata Union, a group of 45 communities from the three local government areas in the region, who are determined to honor and celebrate Nwosu’s memory.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State also expressed his admiration for the late Nwosu, describing him as an icon of democracy. Otti, who was present at the ceremony, stated that Nigeria was celebrating a man who had etched his name in the country’s democratic history. He praised Nwosu for his invaluable contributions to the growth of democracy in the country, noting that his legacy would never be forgotten.
“Nigeria is celebrating an icon of our democracy, and that is why I came to join my brother, Prof. Soludo, to honor this great Nigerian who wrote his name in the sand of time,” Otti said. He prayed that at the resurrection of Christ, Nwosu’s contributions would be eternally recognized.
Professor Nwosu’s death marks the loss of a man who played a significant role in the evolution of Nigeria’s electoral system. As Chairman of the National Electoral Commission from 1989 to 1993, Nwosu introduced innovative reforms that would have lasting impacts on the country’s democratic processes.
One of his key contributions was the introduction of the “Option A4” voting system, which was used in the 1991 governorship and parliamentary elections, and the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election. Under this system, voters queued behind the photographs of their preferred candidates at polling stations, making the process transparent and reducing the possibility of rigging. Though the election was later annulled by the military government of General Ibrahim Babangida, it remains a landmark event in Nigeria’s political history.
Nwosu’s role in overseeing the elections and his innovative reforms, particularly the introduction of Option A4, earned him praise from many observers both in Nigeria and abroad. Despite the annulment of the June 12 election, which remains a dark chapter in Nigeria’s history, Nwosu’s commitment to a fair and transparent election process left an indelible mark on the country’s democracy.
The late Professor’s body was brought to the church in a white casket draped in the Nigerian flag, symbolizing his dedicated service to the nation. The funeral service saw the participation of several political figures, including former governors of Anambra State, such as Peter Obi, who was also in attendance to pay his respects. Traditional rulers, community leaders, and other dignitaries were present to bid farewell to the man who had contributed so much to Nigeria’s political landscape.
In their tributes, several speakers highlighted the fact that Nwosu’s death represents not only the loss of an individual but also the loss of a crucial pillar in the country’s democratic journey. His leadership of the National Electoral Commission during a critical period in Nigeria’s political history earned him the respect of both local and international observers. While Nwosu may no longer be with us, his legacy as a true statesman and a champion of Nigeria’s democratic process will continue to live on.
As the country reflects on the life of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, it is clear that his contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s electoral system are immeasurable. His tenure as Chairman of the National Electoral Commission during one of Nigeria’s most critical electoral periods remains a testament to his commitment to democratic principles. Today, Nigeria mourns the loss of a national hero, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations committed to upholding democracy.
