Shameful Oversight: NIDO Slams Govt Over Neglect of Prof. Nwosu’s June 12 Heroics
The Ndi Igbo Intellectual & Cultural Development Organization (NIDO) has expressed outrage over the lack of recognition accorded to Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, the chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) that conducted the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Despite the election being widely regarded as the most credible in Nigeria’s history, Nwosu’s contributions have been largely ignored by successive governments.
The group in a statement issued on Tuesday signed by Director Communication and Information of NIDO Comrade Afulike Christian Don and was made available to our Correspondent said the deliberate act of not honouring Prof Nwosu and recognizing June 12 was a deservice .
NIDO condemned the deliberate act of denying Prof. Nwosu the honour he deserves, citing it as a recipe for poor performance by subsequent electoral umpires.
The organization noted that recognizing the June 12 election while ignoring Nwosu’s role is hypocritical and unacceptable.
NIDO emphasized that Nwosu’s leadership and innovative approach to the electoral process, particularly the use of the “Option A4” voting system, were instrumental in making the June 12 election a success.
NIDO demands that Prof. Nwosu be accorded the recognition he deserves, including the naming of a national edifice or democratic institution after him.
The organization urges the Anambra State government and other southeastern state governments to immortalize Prof. Nwosu’s legacy.
The organization noted that while Nigeria has made significant strides in consolidating democracy, the electoral system still faces numerous challenges, including the need for reforms and increased trust in the electoral process.
NIDO’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development.
“By acknowledging Prof. Nwosu’s role in the June 12 election, the government can demonstrate its commitment to valuing and promoting democratic ideals” it stated.
