Senator Karimi Opposes Calls to Immortalize Late INEC Chairman Prof. Humphrey Nwosu
In the wake of the passing of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC), discussions have intensified regarding the appropriate means to honor his contributions to Nigeria's democratic journey. While some lawmakers advocate for immortalizing Prof. Nwosu, Senator Sunday Karimi of Kogi West Senatorial District has voiced opposition to such motions.
During a recent Senate session, Senator Karimi, alongside other colleagues, debated a motion put forward by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and co-sponsors from the minority caucus. The motion sought to commemorate Prof. Nwosu by naming the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters after him and awarding him a national honor. However, the Senate ultimately decided against these proposals.
Senator Karimi criticized Prof. Nwosu for lacking the courage to announce the results of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which was annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida. He argued that immortalizing Nwosu would undermine the legacy of Chief M.K.O. Abiola, widely regarded as the winner of that election. Senator Afolabi Salisu echoed this sentiment, stating, "Any attempt to do anything beyond a one-minute silence is to rubbish Abiola’s legacy."
In contrast, the House of Representatives has called on President Bola Tinubu to honor Prof. Nwosu for conducting the June 12, 1993, election, deemed one of the most credible in Nigeria's history. Lawmakers Peter Uzokwe and Nnabuife Clara sponsored a motion advocating for the conferment of a national honor upon Nwosu and the renaming of the INEC headquarters in his memory.
President Tinubu, in his tribute, emphasized that the most fitting way to honor Prof. Nwosu is to ensure that elections in Nigeria remain credible, transparent, and reflective of the people's will.
As the nation reflects on Prof. Nwosu's legacy, the debate continues on the appropriate measures to commemorate his role in Nigeria's democratic evolution.
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