March 28, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
The Governors of Nigeria’s five South-East states have resolved to meet with President Bola Tinubu to request a national honour for the late Professor Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
Nwosu is credited with conducting Nigeria’s freest and fairest election, the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which was won by Chief M.K.O. Abiola but later annulled by General Ibrahim Babangida.
The decision comes after the Nigerian Senate rejected a motion to honour Nwosu.
However, some Nigerians claimed that Nwosu efforts during June 12 election significantly contributed to Nigeria’s democratic history.
Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, expressed optimism that President Tinubu would grant their request, stating: “We must learn to change our style and devise a means of dialogue to get what we need from the government at the center, not through fighting and attacks.”
The Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, who represented President Tinubu at Nwosu’s funeral, assured attendees that the federal government values Nwosu’s contributions to democracy. Umahi noted that discussions are underway to address two requests made by Nwosu’s family.
Most Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma, former Archbishop of Enugu Anglican Diocese, criticized Senator Adams Oshiomhole and the Senate for blaming Nwosu for the annulment of the June 12 election. Chukwuma stated: “That statement by Oshiomhole is uncalled for… Nigerians owe both Abiola and Nwosu an apology.”
