Abuja – Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has held a special tribute in honour of its former Chairman, the late Professor Humphrey Nwosu, who passed away in October 2024. The event took place at INEC Headquarters in Abuja.
Professor Nwosu served as the Chairman of the then National Electoral Commission (NEC) from 1989 to 1993, a period marked by significant innovations in election management. INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, welcomed Professor Nwosu’s widow, Lady Stella Humphrey Nwosu, and other family members to the event, acknowledging his contributions as an academic and public servant.
Legacy of the Option A4 System
Professor Yakubu highlighted Professor Nwosu’s introduction of the Open Ballot System, widely known as Option A4, where voters queued behind their preferred candidate’s symbol. He also credited Professor Nwosu with initiating the current three-tier structure of INEC, with offices at national, state, and local government levels, laying a foundation for the commission’s independence.
Recognition and Regret
While Professor Nwosu’s efforts were not always appreciated at the time, particularly due to the annulment of the 1993 presidential election, Professor Yakubu noted that with time, the election is now celebrated as one of Nigeria’s best. He pointed out that even those who annulled the election have expressed regret.
Professor Yakubu also acknowledged the posthumous honour bestowed upon the presumed winner of the 1993 election, Chief M. K. O. Abiola, and his running mate, Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe. However, he noted that the electoral commission, personified by Professor Nwosu, received only “muffled commendation.” He suggested that it is not too late for the appropriate authorities to posthumously honour Professor Nwosu for his service.
Gratitude and Farewell
On behalf of INEC, Professor Yakubu expressed gratitude to the Nwosu family for their support during Professor Nwosu’s challenging tenure. He concluded by saying, “For us in INEC, we will continue to appreciate Professor Nwosu and the dedicated service he rendered to the nation. May his soul be with the Lord.”
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