Peter Obi mourns Humphrey Nwosu, calls him ‘true democrat’

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections in Nigeria, Peter Obi, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC).

Obi described Nwosu as a “true democrat” and a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic history.

In a heartfelt statement on his X handle, Obi praised Nwosu as an outstanding academic and a courageous defender of democratic principles, particularly during his tenure as NEC Chairman from 1989 to 1993.

Obi stressed Prof. Nwosu’s pivotal role in organising and upholding the 1993 presidential elections, a process widely regarded as one of the fairest in Nigeria’s history.

“For his role in that election, Prof. Nwosu’s name will remain indelible in the history of Nigerian democracy,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor, however, lamented the state of Nigeria’s current electoral process, noting that despite the resources and technology now available, the integrity and commitment to democracy exhibited by Nwosu under less favourable conditions have not been replicated.

Obi praised Nwosu for his adherence to truth and electoral transparency, contrasting it with the current challenges in Nigeria’s democratic system.

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“Unlike today, when professors are sometimes procured to aid electoral malpractice, Prof. Nwosu applied the principles he taught as an erudite professor of Political Science, conducting an election that remains a benchmark for integrity,” Obi said.

Obi called for more leaders like Nwosu, whom he described as willing to risk their lives for the sake of democracy.

He also prayed for God’s forgiveness for Nwosu’s shortcomings and for strength for his family and all those mourning him.

“May God Almighty grant Nigeria the likes of Professor Humphrey Nwosu in future elections,” Obi noted, reaffirming his belief that a new and better Nigeria is possible.