The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the newly unveiled Prof. Humphrey Nwosu Center for Democracy and Human Rights have called on Nigerians to safeguard electoral integrity as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
The call was made during the maiden June 12 Commemoration Lecture and formal unveiling of the Center in Abuja, held in honor of the late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, CON, who conducted the annulled but widely acclaimed June 12, 1993 presidential election as NEC Chairman.
In his opening remarks, NHRC Executive Secretary Dr. Tony Ojukwu said the lecture is “a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by courageous Nigerians, NEC, pro-democracy activists, CSOs, all in the struggle for democracy, constitutional governance, electoral justice, and the right to participate in free and fair elections.”
He noted that June 12 symbolizes Nigerians’ collective aspiration for free choice, national unity, transparency, accountability, and justice. With INEC’s timetable already fixing presidential/National Assembly elections for Saturday, 16 January 2027 and governorship/State Assembly polls for 16 February 2027, Ojukwu said this year’s theme “Electoral Integrity and the Future of Political Relations in Nigeria” is “timely, relevant and forward-looking.”
The NHRC boss said the lecture is expected to contribute to “voter education, institutional accountability, and democratic participation” while generating “practical ideas and constructive recommendations” to strengthen electoral institutions ahead of 2027 and beyond.
He described the NHRC-Center partnership as “strategic and timely,” based on shared ideals of justice, accountability, inclusion, and the right to participate and assemble. He announced plans for deeper collaboration in human rights education, electoral reform, civic enlightenment, youth leadership, research, and policy advocacy across Nigeria and Africa.
The event also featured the presentation of the “Election Integrity and Democracy Award” to Nigerians who have shown “exceptional courage, transparency, accountability, professionalism, and commitment to democratic values.” Ojukwu said the award is meant to celebrate integrity in public service and inspire officials, election managers, and citizens.
Chairman of the occasion and former Supreme Court Justice, Hon. Abdu Aboki, said Prof. Nwosu “was more than a scholar and public servant. He was a symbol of principled leadership. His stewardship of Nigeria’s electoral process remains a reference point for transparency and credibility.”
Aboki stressed that “electoral integrity is not merely a technical issue. It is a human right issue. It is about the right of every citizen to choose their leaders freely without fear or manipulation.” He added that it is also about strengthening institutions, enforcing the rule of law, and building public trust so democracy “is not reduced to a ritual, but remains a living breathing system.”
He commended NHRC and the Nwosu Center for creating a platform for reflection, dialogue, and reform, and urged citizens, political actors, security agencies, media, and civil society to each play a role in defending democracy. “In the spirit of Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, let us commit ourselves to truth, fairness and courage… let us ensure future generations inherit a democracy stronger than the one we met,” he said.
The event was attended by the NHRC Chairman, Hon. Justice Abdu Aboki; Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Chairman Senate Committee on Human Rights and Judiciary; members of political parties, security agencies, the diplomatic corps, captains of industry, and academia.
The Prof. Humphrey Nwosu Center for Democracy and Human Rights was established to preserve and advance Nwosu’s democratic legacy through civic education, electoral reform advocacy, research, and ethical governance promotion.
