Tinubu Overrules Senate, Says Nwosu was Statesman Worthy of Immortalisation
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has differed with the Senate which dismissed former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission, NEC, Professor Humphrey Nwosu as not worthy or remembrance, stating that he was a statesman who worked for democracy and worthy of Immortalisation.
He spoke through the Minister of Works, David Umahi at the funeral of the late electoral umpire who conducted the June 12 election adjudged the fairest and freest in the history of the nation.
At a Requiem Mass at St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Ajalli, Orumba North local government of Anambra State, President Tinubu praised the late Nwosu, as a statesman whose life was marked by impact and inspiration.
The funeral ceremony, which was attended by dignitaries from across the country, offered an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the life and legacy of the departed Prof. Nwosu.
President Tinubu, in his message of condolence, urged all lovers of democracy to take a cue from the tradition of industry, integrity, patriotism, and loyalty to democratic principles that characterized Prof. Nwosu’s public life.
According to a statement released by the Special Adviser Media to the Minister, Barr. Orji Uchenna Orji, President Tinubu consoled with the family, government, and people of Anambra State on the passing of the former NEC chairman.
The President said, “As we mourn the death of Prof Humphery Nwosu, we are invited to celebrate him for his profound accomplishments and personal fulfilments as a public administrator, political scientist, and academics icon. We are urged to reflect on his democratic ideals and his sense of commitment to a democratic Nigeria. These are the hallmarks of his life and times that will be cherished beyond this generation.”
President Tinubu also used the occasion to reassure Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to revolutionizing the development of critical sectors of the economy. He expressed confidence that the economy, which was inherited in a fragile state, is now on a path of sustainable growth.
“May I assure Nigerians that the fragile economy we inherited is now alive and on a path of sustainable growth. We have overcome the worst. Our democracy is growing, and I assure Nigerians that my administration will continue to deepen the democracy benefits for the good of all Nigerians,” he assured.
In his remarks, Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, remembered Prof. Nwosu as an electoral umpire who introduced the Option A4 voting system and conducted one of the freest and fairest general elections in Nigeria’s history.
Soludo urged the late Professor’s family, community, and associates to continue working to sustain the values that defined his life and times.
The funeral service was attended by prominent Nigerians, including politicians, academics, and traditional leaders. The ceremony was marked by tributes, eulogies, and prayers, as Nigerians from all walks of life came together to bid farewell to a man who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.
As the nation mourns the passing of Prof. Nwosu, there are calls for his legacy to be immortalized. Many have suggested that a national institution be named after him, in recognition of his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development. The Federal Government has announced plans to consider this proposal, as a way of honoring the late Professor’s memory.
