In a passionate appeal to President Bola Tinubu, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, alongside other members of the South-East Senate Caucus, urged the President to posthumously honour the late Professor Humphrey Nwosu, the former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC), for his pivotal role in the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election.
The call came just a day after Abaribe’s motion, which sought to immortalize Nwosu, was rejected by the Senate. Abaribe, who represents Abia South, referred to Tinubu as a “June 12 warrior,” urging him to look past the Senate’s dismissal and take action to rightfully recognise Nwosu’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s democracy.
The lawmaker reminded the public that Nwosu’s unwavering determination ensured the 1993 elections, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, were held despite attempts by the military junta to halt the process. He added, “Everyone knows the sacrifice Professor Nwosu made to establish the democracy that Nigerians now enjoy.”
Echoing these sentiments, Senator Osita Izunaso, representing Imo West, recounted Nwosu’s courage on June 10, 1993. Izunaso, who served as a returning officer during the election, shared a vivid memory of Nwosu’s defiance against the military government, particularly when he was detained for refusing to halt the election results. Izunaso called out the false claims that Nwosu had failed to announce the results, stressing that they were being broadcasted up until his arrest.
Despite the impassioned pleas, the Senate voted against Abaribe’s motion, which included a proposal to rename the INEC headquarters in honour of Nwosu and posthumously bestow him with national honours. Although the motion was rejected, the Senate observed a moment of silence in respect for Nwosu and extended condolences to his family.
The vote led to a walkout by South-East senators, underscoring their frustration with the decision. However, the debate is far from over, as many continue to argue that Nwosu’s legacy must be recognized by the government, especially considering the lasting impact of the 1993 elections on Nigeria’s transition to democracy.
As calls to immortalize Nwosu grow louder, all eyes are now on President Tinubu to see if he will heed the Senate’s plea and honour the memory of a true Nigerian hero.
