Southeast Senators Stage Walkout Over Senate’s Rejection of Motion to Honor Prof. Humphrey Nwosu
ABUJA — In a dramatic display of protest, senators from the Southeast region walked out of the Senate chamber on March 27, 2025, following the rejection of a motion to immortalize Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, the former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) who oversaw the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election. The motion, sponsored by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, aimed to honor Nwosu by renaming the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters after him and conferring a posthumous national honor123.
Background: Prof. Humphrey Nwosu’s Legacy
Prof. Nwosu is remembered for conducting the June 12, 1993, election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history. The election, which was won by MKO Abiola, was annulled by the military regime of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, leading to widespread protests and a significant turning point in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy12.
The Motion and Debate
Senator Abaribe’s motion sought to recognize Nwosu’s contributions to Nigeria’s electoral process by:
- Renaming the INEC headquarters after him.
- Granting him a posthumous national honor.
However, the motion faced strong opposition from several senators, including Adams Oshiomhole and Olamilekan Adeola, who argued that Nwosu failed to demonstrate courage by not announcing the election results despite partial announcements13. Oshiomhole stated, “He who is not ready to die for something will die for nothing. Nwosu lacked the courage to stand by the election results”1.
Walkout and Protest
Following the rejection of the motion through a voice vote by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, members of the Southeast Senate Caucus, led by Abaribe, staged a walkout in protest. Addressing the press, Abaribe emphasized that Nwosu deserved recognition for his role in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. He noted that former INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega had recently called for Nwosu’s recognition, highlighting his contributions to Nigeria’s electoral system12.
Appeal to President Tinubu
The Southeast Caucus appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene and honor Nwosu’s legacy, arguing that it was a matter of justice and historical recognition24. Senator Osita Izunaso, who was a returning officer during the 1993 election, defended Nwosu’s actions, stating that he was apprehended by the military and prevented from announcing the results2.
Conclusion
The walkout highlights the ongoing debate over Prof. Nwosu’s legacy and the complexities of Nigeria’s democratic history. As the country continues to navigate its political landscape, the recognition of figures like Nwosu remains a contentious issue, reflecting broader discussions about democracy, accountability, and historical justice.
