It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, the man who conducted the historic June 12, 1993 election in Nigeria, which was annulled by the then military dictator, General Ibrahim Babangida. Prof. Nwosu passed away at the age of 83.
Prof. Nwosu was a seasoned academic and administrator, who served as the Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) during Nigeria's transition from military to civilian rule. The June 12 election, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest in Nigeria's history, saw Chief Moshood Abiola emerge as the winner. However, the election was annulled by General Babangida, plunging the country into a political crisis that lasted for years.
Despite the annulment of the election, Prof. Nwosu remained a respected figure in Nigeria's political landscape. His commitment to democracy and electoral integrity never wavered, and he continued to advocate for free and fair elections in the country.
Throughout his career, Prof. Nwosu made significant contributions to Nigeria's electoral process, and his legacy will forever be remembered by generations to come. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria and the entire African continent.