Nwosu: Tinubu extends condolences as Ex-NEC Chairman dies at 83

President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and associates of Professor Humphrey Nwosu.

The renowned former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) passed away on October 24, 2024, at a hospital in the United States.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, released a statement expressing the President’s deep admiration for the late Professor Humphrey Nwosu.

He said, “Tinubu expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, a highly respected patriot and national asset who played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s democracy.”

According to Onanuga, the president holds Professor Nwosu in high esteem, remembering him as a bold and courageous administrator.

“Tinubu emphasizes that the highest honor bestowed upon champions of democracy, such as Professor Nwosu, lies in maintaining the credibility, openness, and democratic character of the country’s elections.”

“The President offers heartfelt condolences, praying that God Almighty grants the late Professor Humphrey Nwosu’s soul eternal repose and provides divine solace to those bereaved by his passing,” the statement read.

Know about Nwosu

Professor Humphrey Nwosu was a renowned Nigerian political scientist and the former chairman of the National Electoral Commission of Nigeria (NEC).

Professor Nwosu was born on October 2, 1941 in Anambra State, Nigeria.

He attended Holy Ghost College, Owerri and had his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Also, he had Master’s and Ph.D. in Political Science from Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA.

Nwosu was a distinguished academic and civil servant who served as the NEC Chairman from 1989 to 1993.

He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic development, particularly during the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election.

During his tenure, he conducted the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election,which was later annulled by General Ibrahim Babangida.

The election is widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.

Prior to the unfortunate events surrounding the presidential election, the NEC under Nwosu’s leadership had successfully administered governorship and parliamentary elections.

Prof. Nwosu introduced an innovative and cost-effective voting system known as Option A-4, where voters would queue behind photographs of their preferred candidates at polling stations.

The pioneering approach was implemented during his tenure as Chairman of the NEC in Nigeria from 1989 to 1993.

The Option A-4 system was notable for its simplicity and transparency, allowing voters to clearly indicate their chosen candidate by standing in line behind their photograph.

Academic Career of Nwosu

Humphrey was a lecturer in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka between 1972 and 1985.

Between 1985 and 2004, he was a Professor of Political Science in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

He also published numerous articles and books on Nigerian politics, democracy, and electoral processes.

Professional Membership

During his lifetime, he was a member of the Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA), the African Studies Association (ASA) and the International Political Science Association (IPSA).

Notable Works of Nwosu

He published “Laying the Foundation for Nigeria’s Democracy: My Account of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election and Its Annulment” in 2009.

In 1995, he published “Nigerian Politics and Governance: The Road to Democracy.”

In 1985, he published “Electoral Politics in Nigeria” and “The Politics of Nigerian Constitutional Development” in 1977.

Tributes and recognition

Nwosu was described as “a hero of Nigeria’s democracy” by President Bola Tinubu.

He was recognized as “a champion of electoral integrity” by the National Electoral Commission of Nigeria.

Humphrey was commemorated as “a defender of democracy” by the Nigerian Civil Society Organizations.

Legacy

The professor was recognized for his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic growth and electoral reform.

He inspired generations of Nigerian academics, politicians, and democracy advocates.

Also, his contributions to electoral reform and democratic governance remain influential.

Besides, he is remembered for his integrity, courage, and commitment to Nigeria’s democratic development

Professor Nwosu’s impact on Nigeria’s democratic journey remains significant, and his legacy continues to inspire advocates for credible elections and democratic governance.

Awards and Recognition

Humphrey received the National Merit Award in 2000 and the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs’ Fellowship Award in 2002.

He received Honorary Doctorate degrees from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Imo State University, and Abia State University.

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