Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, Chairman of June 12 Electoral Commission, Dies

Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, the former chairman of the June 12 electoral commission, has passed away. His role in Nigeria’s historic 1993 elections left a lasting impact on the nation’s democratic journey.

Professor Humphrey Nwosu, the former chairman of Nigeria’s National Electoral Commission (now called the Independent National Electoral Commission), has died at 82.

Nwosu, who was born on October 2, 1941, passed away at a hospital in Virginia, United States.

Nwosu is most notable for his role in managing Nigeria’s landmark June 12, 1993 presidential election, often regarded as the nation’s freest and fairest to date.

Under his leadership, Chief Moshood Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) secured victory in the election, defeating Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC).

Nwosu, despite facing intense pressure from the Ibrahim Babangida military regime to stop announcing results, proceeded to release a substantial portion of the election outcomes.

Nonetheless, the election was eventually nullified, resulting in a political crisis that significantly influenced Nigeria’s democratic history.

Professor Nwosu’s enduring legacy is linked to his dedication to maintaining electoral integrity in a challenging political landscape, establishing him as an important figure in Nigeria’s path toward democracy.