Why Did Southeast Senators Walk Out? A Closer Look At The Humphrey Nwosu Controversy

Southeast Senators Stage Walkout: A Show of Discontent

Listen up, folks. On Thursday, something significant happened in the Senate chamber. Senators from the Southeast region decided they'd had enough. They staged a dramatic walkout during plenary after a motion to immortalize the late Humphrey Nwosu didn't pass. Now, this didn't just happen out of nowhere. There's a backstory here, and it's worth unpacking. The motion, which aimed to honor the former chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC), was reintroduced and debated on the floor but ultimately defeated through a voice vote. This didn't sit well with the Southeast senators, and they made their feelings known by walking out.

Naija News reported that the Senate, presided over by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, had previously refused to entertain the motion on Wednesday. Why? Because it wasn't listed on the Order Paper. Now, you might be thinking, "What's the big deal?" Well, let me tell you—it's a big deal. The Order Paper is like the official agenda of the Senate, and if something isn't on it, it can be hard to get it addressed. But that didn't stop Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Senator Abba Moro, and other South East senators from trying again. They re-introduced the motion, hoping for a different outcome. Unfortunately, it didn't go their way this time either.

Why Is Humphrey Nwosu So Important?

Humphrey Nwosu isn't just any name in Nigerian history. He played a pivotal role in shaping the country's democratic journey. The Southeast senators, particularly Senator Abaribe, have been vocal about the importance of recognizing Nwosu's contributions. Speaking to the press after the walkout, Abaribe expressed his disappointment that the Senate couldn't see the value in honoring the late professor. "How can we talk about democracy in Nigeria without acknowledging the sacrifices made by Humphrey Nwosu?" he asked. It's a valid question. Without Nwosu's leadership at the NEC, the historic June 12 elections might never have happened. That's why the senators are urging President Bola Tinubu to step in and honor the man who helped bring that momentous day to life.

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Here's what Abaribe had to say: "We say that even if it is not done today, another government will do it. We are still looking up to the Tinubu’s government. If you recall, Tinubu was seen and has always been seen as a June 12 warrior and therefore all the elements that make up June 12, including the conduct of the election… Like we said if there was election, there would have been no June 12. We are also using this opportunity to appeal to the government of President Bola Tinubu to honor the man who made sure that that election held and put the election in the consciousness of Nigerians."

What Happens Next?

The question now is, where do we go from here? The Southeast senators have made their stance clear. They believe Humphrey Nwosu deserves recognition for his role in Nigeria's democratic process. Whether or not the Senate or President Tinubu will heed their call remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the legacy of Humphrey Nwosu is deeply intertwined with the history of Nigeria's democracy. It's a legacy that deserves to be remembered, respected, and celebrated. As the debate continues, let's hope that cooler heads prevail and that the contributions of those who paved the way for democracy are properly acknowledged.