Governors of the five states within Nigeria’s Southeast geopolitical zone have resolved to meet with President Bola Tinubu to advocate for a national honor for the late Professor Humphrey Nwosu.
Nwosu, the former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission, conducted the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election, regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest election, won by Chief M.K.O. Abiola but annulled by the then Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida.
The decision comes just 24 hours after the Nigerian Senate rejected a motion to honor Nwosu despite his significant role in organizing the acclaimed election.
Speaking at the burial ceremony of Professor Nwosu in Ajali, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Soludo expressed optimism that President Tinubu would heed their call for recognition.
“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,” Soludo said.
“For us in Anambra and the Old Aguata Union, made up of 45 communities in three local government areas, we shall honor and celebrate our son, Professor Humphrey Nwosu.
“After the funeral, we, the Southeast Governors, will meet with the President over the national honor for our brother, and we are sure he will grant our request,” the governor stated.
Minister of Works, Engineer Dave Umahi, representing President Tinubu at the ceremony, affirmed the federal government’s appreciation of Nwosu’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy. He revealed that discussions were ongoing regarding two specific requests made by Nwosu’s family. Umahi added that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation would convey the final decision to Governor Soludo.
“He played a very vital role in shaping Nigerian democracy and governance. The country will continue to celebrate him and his achievements,” Umahi remarked.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, who was also present at the funeral, praised Nwosu as an enduring symbol of Nigerian democracy.
“Nigeria is celebrating an icon of her democracy. That is why I am here to honor this great Nigerian who wrote his name in the sands of time,” Otti noted.
On his part, Most Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma, former Archbishop of Enugu Anglican Diocese, criticized Senator Adams Oshiomhole and the entire Senate for attributing the annulment of the June 12 election to Nwosu.
“That statement by Oshiomhole is uncalled for because Humphrey Nwosu did not annul the June 12 election. Former President Babangida has already owned up to that decision,” Chukwuma said.
He added that Nigerians owe both Abiola and Nwosu an apology, emphasizing that their spirits would not rest until justice is served.
In his sermon, Rt. Rev. Samurai Chukwudi Ezeofor, Bishop of Aguata Diocese (Anglican Communion), lamented the nation’s regression and wasted opportunities.
“This country has produced men and women like Prof. Humphrey Nwosu who could have liberated Nigeria. But today, professors rig elections for school dropouts and drug barons, and you say Nigeria will be great?” the bishop questioned.
He condemned the undue political interference in university appointments, where the selection of Vice Chancellors is influenced by political favoritism rather than merit.
The burial was attended by notable personalities, including Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party; Chief Emeka Ihedioha, former Governor of Imo State; and Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central.
The Southeast governors are expected to meet with President Tinubu in the coming weeks to advance their call for a posthumous national honor for the late Professor Humphrey Nwosu.
