Enemies By Design: How The US And USSR Shaped Each Other's Identity

By Ndife David

The Mayor of Orumba North Local Government Area, Rt. Capt. Casmir Nwafor, has renamed the council’s administrative building after the late Professor Humphrey Nwosu in recognition of his exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and the development of the local council.

The announcement was made on Thursday, March 27, 2025, during a commendation ceremony held at the local government headquarters in Ajalli to celebrate the life and legacy of the renowned scholar and reformer.

The event drew dignitaries from across the country, including national, state, and local government officials, educators, community leaders, women and youth groups, as well as friends and admirers, who gathered to pay their final respects to the late democracy icon.

In his address, Mayor Nwafor lauded Professor Nwosu’s dedication to education and public service, describing his impact as one that transcended personal achievements. He emphasized the professor’s historic role in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, particularly his leadership in overseeing the pivotal June 12, 1993, presidential election, which remains a benchmark for electoral transparency in the country.

Mayor Nwafor reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to preserving Professor Nwosu’s legacy as a lasting symbol of his contributions to Nigeria’s political development. He also called on the Nigerian Senate and the Anambra State Government to further immortalize the late professor.

Speaking at the event, the Chief of Staff to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, described the commemoration as a poignant reminder of how one individual can profoundly impact a community and a nation. He highlighted Governor Soludo’s efforts to uphold Professor Nwosu’s legacy and urged attendees to draw inspiration from the professor’s exemplary life of service, integrity, and commitment to education and community development.

In an emotional tribute, Engr. Nnaemeka Nwosu, the late professor’s son, described his father as a distinguished scholar whose influence extended beyond academia to practical community development. He expressed gratitude to the mayor and attendees for their support and called on the people of Ajalli to embrace peace as a way of honoring his father’s memory.

Earlier in the ceremony, the Anglican Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Revd. Dr. Samuel Ezeofor, represented by the Vicar of St. Mark’s Church, Ajalli Archdeaconry, Ven. Benson Nwachukwu Ekwueme, delivered a brief but powerful message. He urged attendees to live lives of integrity, prayed for the repose of Professor Nwosu’s soul, and encouraged the family to take comfort in his exemplary life.

The event featured heartfelt tributes from former political office holders, local government staff, and other dignitaries who celebrated Professor Nwosu’s enduring legacy. Special prayers were also offered for the late professor, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished champions of electoral reform.

A highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of a memorial statue in Professor Nwosu’s honor, followed by a valedictory session reflecting on his remarkable achievements and contributions to Nigeria’s democratic progress.