Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, has expressed deep sadness over the passing of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, the former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
Obi hailed Nwosu as a true democrat and an exemplary academic who demonstrated unwavering dedication to democratic values during his tenure from 1989 to 1993.
In his tribute, Obi praised Prof. Nwosu’s courage and commitment to defending democracy, even under a non-democratic regime. He highlighted the professor’s role in overseeing the pivotal 1993 presidential elections, noting that Nwosu’s name remains etched in the history of Nigerian democracy for standing by the truth during a time when doing so was risky and dangerous.
Obi lamented the fact that despite the advancements in technology and increased funding available to Nigeria’s electoral commission today, the integrity and commitment shown by Nwosu have not been replicated in contemporary elections. He criticized modern-day academics who have compromised their roles in the electoral process, contrasting them with Prof. Nwosu, who applied the principles of democracy he taught as a distinguished political science professor.
Calling for more leaders like Nwosu, Obi emphasized that Nigeria’s future depends on individuals willing to risk their lives for the cause of democracy. He prayed for Nwosu’s soul to rest in peace, asking God to grant comfort to his family and all who mourn him. Obi also urged for Nigeria to be blessed with more leaders like Nwosu in future elections.
In conclusion, Obi reaffirmed his belief in the possibility of a new Nigeria built on the democratic ideals that Nwosu championed.
“A new Nigeria is indeed POssible,“ Obi stated in his closing remark.
