Former INEC chairman, Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, passes away at 83

Professor Humphrey Nwosu, the former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) from 1989 to 1993, has passed away at the age of 83. He died in a hospital in Virginia, USA.

Nwosu, who oversaw Nigeria’s historic June 12, 1993, election, played a pivotal role in the country’s democratic history. Under his leadership, NEC introduced the innovative Option A4 and Open Ballot voting systems, ensuring what is widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest election.

The election saw Chief Moshood Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) emerge victorious, defeating Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC). However, the announcement of the results was halted on orders from the military ruler, General Ibrahim Babangida.

In July 2024, the House of Representatives called on President Bola Tinubu to honour Nwosu for his significant contribution to Nigeria’s electoral process.

Nwosu’s legacy remains deeply tied to the June 12 election, a milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey.