Ojukwu Hails Tinubu Over Prof. Nwosu’s National Honor
By George Ozalla

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has extended its warmest congratulations to the Federal Government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for recognizing the invaluable contributions of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu to Nigeria’s democracy. In a statement signed by the Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, OFR, SAN, the NHRC described the conferment of the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) Award on Prof. Nwosu as a fitting tribute to his dedication and commitment to democratic ideals.
The NHRC Executive Secretary highlighted Prof. Nwosu’s significant electoral reforms during his tenure as Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) from 1989 to 1993, including the introduction of the Open Ballot System, popularly known as Option A4. He noted that Prof. Nwosu’s leadership will forever be remembered for the conduct of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
The Commission commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this gesture and urged the government to continue recognizing and celebrating individuals who have contributed to Nigeria’s democratic journey. The NHRC also called for the recognition and honoring of other key staff members of the defunct NEC who played crucial roles in the June 12, 1993 election, including the Director of Legal Services and his staff who challenged the annulment in court, and the Director of Public Affairs.
The NHRC described this recognition as a testament to the government’s commitment to honoring heroes of democracy who have made significant contributions to the country’s electoral process. The Commission lauded INEC’s advocacy for a posthumous national honor for Prof. Nwosu as a noble gesture that underscores the Commission’s dedication to promoting democratic values.