A motion to rename the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC), was shot down in the Senate on Thursday.

The proposal, brought forward by Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe (APGA-Abia), sought to honor Nwosu’s role in the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll. The motion had support from several senators, including Minority Leader Abba Moro, Ned Nwoko (PDP-Delta), and Adamu Aliero (PDP-Kebbi).

Abaribe urged the Senate to immortalize Nwosu by renaming INEC in his honor and posthumously awarding him a national title. However, when Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the plenary, put the motion to a voice vote, it was met with a resounding ‘Nay’ from many senators. The only approved tribute was a minute of silence for the late electoral chief.

During the debate, Abaribe emphasized Nwosu’s legacy, stating:

> “His courageous defense of the democratic electoral process led to the famous June 12 event, which ultimately confirmed MKO Abiola as the winner. His unwavering commitment to electoral integrity laid the foundation for today’s INEC.”

However, opposition arose from some lawmakers. Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC-Edo) argued that Nwosu failed at a critical moment, as he never officially announced the election results.

> “When it mattered most, his courage failed him,” Oshiomhole remarked.

Senator Osita Izunaso (APC-Imo) countered, asserting that Nwosu’s role in the election should not be undermined.

> “If you ask Nigerians about Prof. Nwosu, they will tell you he was a hero,” he said.

Senator Solomon Adeola (APC-Ogun) added nuance to the debate, stating:

> “Yes, he conducted the election, and yes, he released the results. But releasing results is not the same as announcing them.”

Deputy Senate President Barau commended the senators for their spirited yet civil discourse on the issue, calling it an example of robust democratic debate.

Despite the strong arguments, the Senate ultimately refused to rename INEC after Nwosu, signaling a continued divide over how to remember the key figures of Nigeria’s June 12 electoral history.