When corruption rules a nation: The case of Nigeria’s federal lawmakers and the legacy of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu
By Chukwuma Ambrose Ohaka
Corruption is like a cancer that eats deep into the fabric of any society it infests, weakening institutions, destroying values, and undermining democracy. In Nigeria, corruption has long been an obstacle to national progress, allowing mediocrity to thrive while excellence is ignored or even punished. A striking example of this institutional decay is the continued failure of Nigeria’s federal lawmakers to immortalize the late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, the man who orchestrated the most credible election in the nation’s history—the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Prof. Nwosu, who served as the Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) during the transition to civilian rule under General Ibrahim Babangida, is a name that should be etched in gold in Nigeria’s democratic history. Under his leadership, the electoral process was reformed, and he introduced the innovative Option A4 voting system, which ensured transparency and credibility. The outcome of the June 12 election, widely believed to have been won by Chief MKO Abiola, was a testament to Nwosu’s integrity and commitment to democracy. Yet, despite his pivotal role, successive Nigerian governments have failed to give him the national recognition he deserves.
A nation that forgets its heroes
The failure to immortalize Prof. Nwosu is not an isolated incident—it is a reflection of the broader pattern of disregard for meritocracy and sacrifice in Nigeria. Unlike in other countries where individuals who contribute to national development are celebrated, Nigeria has a habit of ignoring or even vilifying those who stand for truth and justice. This negligence is particularly evident in the actions (or inaction) of the federal lawmakers who have continued to overlook the late professor in their motions, bills, and resolutions.
When President Muhammadu Buhari posthumously honoured Chief MKO Abiola with the title of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) and declared June 12 as Democracy Day, it was a momentous step in the right direction. However, recognizing the man who made that historic election possible—Prof. Nwosu—would have completed the process. It is therefore shameful that lawmakers, whose primary duty includes shaping national values through legislation, have failed to push for his recognition.
The role of corruption in this neglect
Corruption, in this context, is not just about stolen funds or bribery. It is about moral and institutional corruption, where those in power refuse to acknowledge contributions that do not directly serve their political interests. The Nigerian legislative class has often been accused of prioritizing self-serving bills, budget padding, and extravagant allowances, while key national issues remain unattended.
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One might ask: Why has no significant motion been passed to immortalize Prof. Nwosu? The answer lies in the entrenched culture of political expediency over historical justice. In Nigeria, the recognition of national figures often depends on political affiliations rather than merit. Those who stand for transparency and integrity, like Nwosu did, are sidelined because their legacy reminds the political class of what they have failed to achieve.
A call for national redemption
It is not too late for Nigeria’s federal lawmakers to correct this historical injustice. Immortalizing Prof. Humphrey Nwosu is not just about honouring one man—it is about affirming Nigeria’s commitment to democratic ideals and sending a message that integrity will be rewarded. This can be achieved through:
1. Posthumous national honors: The National Assembly should pass a resolution recommending a national honour for Nwosu, just as was done for MKO Abiola.
2. Naming public institutions after him: A major national landmark—such as the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) or a leading university department in political science—should be named after him.
3. Inclusion in national history: Schools and civic education curricula should highlight the role Nwosu played in advancing Nigeria’s democracy.
The failure to recognize Prof. Humphrey Nwosu is a national embarrassment, and it speaks volumes about the priorities of our leaders. If corruption continues to define our governance, where truth and patriotism are sacrificed for personal gains, Nigeria will remain a nation that rewards mediocrity while punishing excellence. The time to change this narrative is now.
Conclusion
When corruption rules a nation, truth is buried, and heroes are forgotten. Nigeria’s federal lawmakers must rise above selfish interests and acknowledge those who have paved the way for our democracy. If we cannot honor the legacy of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, then we risk rewriting history with false narratives while betraying the very essence of justice and progress.
