Nigeria Remembers a Democratic Icon as Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to National Progress
In a significant development, President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the invaluable contributions of the late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, former chairman of the defunct National Electoral Commission (NEC), in shaping Nigeria’s democratic landscape. The President highlighted Nwosu’s enduring legacy of electoral reforms and his commitment to a fair and just democratic process.
Tinubu made this declaration during the funeral service for Prof. Nwosu at St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Ajalli, in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State on Friday. Represented by the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, President Tinubu paid glowing tribute to the late electoral icon, underscoring his profound influence on Nigeria’s political history.
A Statesman Remembered for Democratic Excellence
Describing Prof. Nwosu as an exceptional statesman, Tinubu noted that his impact on Nigeria’s democracy remains indelible. Nwosu’s pivotal role in introducing the Option A4 voting system and the Open Ballot System significantly enhanced transparency and fairness in the country’s electoral process. These initiatives were instrumental in Nigeria’s democratic evolution and continue to inspire electoral reforms.
The President encouraged all advocates of democracy to uphold Nwosu’s values of industry, integrity, patriotism, and unwavering support for democratic principles. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to strengthening democracy and ensuring that the ideals Nwosu championed remain a foundation for governance in Nigeria.
“As we mourn the death of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, we are invited to celebrate him for his profound accomplishments and personal fulfillment as a public administrator, political scientist, and academic icon,” Tinubu stated in a message delivered through the Minister of Works.
He further condoled with the family, government, and people of Anambra State, urging them to take solace in the exemplary life the late Professor led.
Renewed Hope: Tinubu’s Assurance to Nigerians
President Tinubu also took the opportunity to highlight the strides of his administration in steering Nigeria towards economic stability and sustainable development. He assured Nigerians that his government is on a trajectory of growth, having overcome significant economic challenges inherited from previous administrations.
“May I assure Nigerians that the fragile economy we inherited is now alive and on a path of sustainable growth. We have overcome the worst. Our democracy is growing, and I assure Nigerians that my administration will continue to deepen the democracy benefits for the good of all Nigerians,” Tinubu declared.
He reiterated that his administration remains steadfast in its mission to revamp critical sectors of the economy, fostering national development and improved welfare for all citizens.
Governor Soludo Acknowledges Nwosu’s Historic Electoral Reforms
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, also lauded the contributions of the late Prof. Nwosu. He emphasized that Nwosu would always be remembered for his historic role in Nigeria’s electoral history, particularly for overseeing one of the freest and fairest general elections in the country.
“Prof. Nwosu was an electoral umpire of high repute who revolutionized Nigeria’s voting system with the introduction of Option A4 and the Open Ballot system. His legacy in electoral transparency and fairness remains unmatched,” Soludo remarked.
He urged Nwosu’s family, community, and associates to uphold the values he stood for and work towards sustaining his legacy for future generations.
A Legacy That Lives On
Prof. Humphrey Nwosu’s tenure at the NEC marked a transformative era in Nigeria’s electoral history. His unwavering dedication to a transparent voting process set a precedent for subsequent elections. Though his time on earth has ended, his democratic ideals will continue to influence Nigeria’s political landscape.
As the nation bids farewell to this great electoral reformist, it is a call to action for political stakeholders and the citizenry to uphold the values he championed. President Tinubu’s assurance of strengthening democracy and economic stability serves as a beacon of hope for Nigerians striving for a better future.
The funeral of Prof. Nwosu was not just a moment of mourning but also a celebration of a man who dared to challenge the status quo in Nigeria’s electoral system. His memory and contributions will undoubtedly remain an integral part of the nation’s history, inspiring generations to come.
