The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has issued a passionate appeal for the recognition of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, whose pivotal role in the landmark June 12, 1993, presidential election continues to resonate in Nigeria’s democratic history. As the chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) during that era, Prof. Nwosu introduced significant electoral reforms that have shaped the nation's democratic process.
Prof. Nwosu is widely acclaimed for implementing the innovative Option A4 voting system and the Open ballot system, which were integral to the June 12, 1993, election. This election is often hailed as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, with Chief Moshood Abiola presumed to have won. Despite this, the official results were annulled by the then Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, leading to a national crisis.
The CNPP, through its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, emphasized the necessity of acknowledging Prof. Nwosu's contributions. “Without Prof. Nwosu’s bold implementation of the Option A4 voting system, June 12 would not hold its place as a significant date in Nigeria’s history,” Ezema stated. He pointed out the conspicuous absence of Prof. Nwosu from the roster of honorees on Democracy Day, calling for an inclusive celebration that recognizes all architects of Nigeria’s freedom.
The Challenges and Legacy of Prof. Nwosu:
Prof. Nwosu faced significant challenges during his tenure. When a court ordered him to hand over the election results, he refused and was subsequently brutalized by the army. His determination to announce the results despite being told to stop led to the dissolution of the NECON by General Babangida. This act of bravery underscores his commitment to democratic principles and integrity.
Career and Contributions
Born in Nigeria, Prof. Humphrey Nwosu is a distinguished political scientist and administrator. He earned his Master’s and doctoral degrees in political science from the University of California, Berkeley, before returning to Nigeria to teach at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. In 1986, he was appointed Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters and Commissioner of Agriculture in Anambra State before becoming Nigeria's top electoral officer in 1989.
After the annulment of the June 12 election, Prof. Nwosu returned to academia, retiring in 1999. He has since focused on community service and reflecting on his experiences, which culminated in his book, Laying the Foundation for Nigeria’s Democracy: My Account of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election and its Annulment.
CNPP's Call to Action
The CNPP stresses that Prof. Nwosu’s legacy should be a part of the national narrative on Democracy Day. Comrade Ezema underscored the importance of remembering figures like Prof. Nwosu, stating, “A nation that forgets its heroes will itself soon be forgotten.” The CNPP also highlighted the issue of ethnic imbalance in national recognition, urging leaders to strive for unity and inclusivity as espoused in Nigeria’s national anthem.
His Continuing Influence
Since his retirement, Prof. Nwosu has remained an influential voice in discussions on electoral reforms and democracy in Nigeria. His numerous publications and contributions to academic and political discourse continue to inspire a new generation of political scientists and public administrators. While Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day, the call by the CNPP to honor Prof. Humphrey Nwosu serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of his work on the nation's democratic evolution. Recognizing his contributions is not only a tribute to his legacy but also a reaffirmation of the principles of fairness and integrity that are essential to any democratic society.
Achievements of Nigeria's Former Military President, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB)
State Creation
Yobe State
Katsina State
Taraba State
Jigawa State
Kebbi State
Enugu State
Edo State
Delta State
Osun State
Akwa Ibom State
Institutional Establishments
Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)
State Security Service (SSS)
National Intelligence Agency (NIA)
Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA)
Infrastructure Projects
Aso Rock Villa
Third Mainland Bridge - the largest bridge on the continent at the time.
Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Station
Toja Bridge in Kebbi
Jibia Water Treatment Plant
Challawa Cenga Dam in Kano
Kano-Abuja Dual Carriageway
ECOWAS Headquarters Secretariat, Abuja
International Conference Centre, Abuja
Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Estates Nationwide
High Court Buildings in the States
Federal Secretariat in 36 States/Abuja
Political Party Offices in 36 States
Divisional Headquarters, Nigeria Army (4 locations)
Military Barracks in Abuja
Army School of Armour, Bauchi
Nigeria Army Amphibious School, Calabar
Quarters for the 4 General Officer Commandings (GOCs)
Nigerian Navy Dockyard
Nigeria Dockyard, Snake Island
Estate for Workers of Federal Ministry of Works & Housing Nationwide, including FCT & Gwagwalada
Satellite Towns Services in Isheri, Lagos, and Gwagwalada, Abuja
Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) Headquarters, Abuja
FEPA Zonal Offices Nationwide & Central Laboratory, Yaba, Lagos
National Eye Centre, Kaduna
Aluminium Smelter Company, Ikot Abasi
Federal Supreme Court, Abuja
Ajaokuta Steel Project Engineering Works
Abuja International Airport Phase 1 & 2
National Assembly, Abuja
Presidential Villa, Abuja
NIA Headquarters
SSS Headquarters, Abuja
Federal Mortgage Bank Headquarters, Lagos
Federal Mortgage Bank Branches Nationwide
Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Headquarters, Abuja
Security Printing & Minting Headquarters, Abuja
Jabi District, Abuja
Abuja Central Area Phase 1 & 2
Asokoro Area Development
Secretariat Buildings for States Created in 1991
Houses of Assembly Complex for States Created in 1991
Judiciary Buildings for States Created in 1991
Maitama General Hospital, Abuja
Wuse General Hospital, Abuja
State House Hospital, Abuja
National Hospital Projects in Various States
Gusau Water Supply Scheme
Asokoro Water Supply
Kubwa Water Supply
Abuja Municipal Water Supply
Gboko-Yandev Water Works
Boreholes for 1004 Housing
Economic Management
Paid Fuel Subsidy
Maintained a Favorable Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate
Ensured Timely Payment of Pensions and Salaries to Workers
Critical Viewpoint
One school of thought argues that even the worst civilian rule is better than the best military regime. However, considering the achievements listed, some may believe that the eight years of IBB's administration, despite its challenges, brought significant infrastructure and institutional developments which have outpaced the progress made in 24 years of democracy.
