The late former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (now INEC), Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, will be laid to rest on March 28, 2025, his family announced in a statement on Sunday.
Legacy of a Distinguished Electoral Reformer
Prof. Nwosu, who conducted the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election, served as NEC Chairman from 1989 to 1993. The election, which was widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest, was controversially annulled by then-military Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida.
During his tenure, Nwosu introduced the Option A4 voting system and the Open Ballot system, which significantly enhanced transparency in Nigeria’s electoral process.
His Passing and Final Journey
Nwosu passed away on October 24, 2024, in a U.S. hospital at the age of 83. His burial rites will span both Nigeria and the United States, starting with a Service of Songs at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, D.C., on March 1, 2025.
A Night of Tributes will be held on March 25, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja. His body will then arrive in Anambra State on March 27, with ceremonies planned at the Orumba North LGA headquarters and his residence at Ogbili Otti Palace.
On March 28, 2025, Nwosu will be laid to rest following a funeral service at St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Ajalli. A reception for guests will be held at the Ajalli Government School field.
Academic and Political Contributions
Born on October 2, 1941, in Ajalli, Anambra State, Nwosu obtained his Master’s and PhD in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley. He later became a Professor at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and served as Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters, and Agriculture in the old Anambra State.
His contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and governance remain highly regarded.
May his soul rest in peace.
