Written by Dr. Nwambu Gabriel,Director General, Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness

Introduction

The journey to democratic governance in Nigeria has been fraught with challenges, conflicts, and untold sacrifices. Among the gallant figures who stood resilient in the face of adversity was Professor Humphrey Nwosu. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader and an indomitable champion of democracy, we reflect on his contributions and unwavering commitment to the electoral process, which laid a foundational path for Nigeria’s democratic practice.

A Visionary Electoral Leader

Professor Nwosu’s tenure as Chairman of Nigeria’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) from 1989 to 1993 marked a pivotal era in the nation’s electoral history. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Nwosu approached his responsibilities with an unwavering resolve to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process. He successfully organized several elections, including Local Government Chairmanship, Governorship, and State and National Assembly elections, which were lauded for their transparency and fairness. His most significant achievement came with the conduct of the June 12, 1993, presidential elections, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest elections in Nigeria’s history.

Courageous Stand Against Adversity

In an environment characterized by military interference and political manipulation, Nwosu exemplified courage. He boldly overturned a court order issued on June 10, 1993, that sought to halt the presidential elections. Despite facing intense pressure from the military establishment led by Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), he remained resolute, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring that the elections were conducted as planned. His insistence on completing his mandate, even when his commission was dissolved midway through the electoral process, is a testament to his integrity and dedication.

His unyielding stance culminated in the announcement of results from 29 out of 30 states in the June 12 elections. Although General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the elections before Nwosu could declare the final results, his steadfastness demonstrated his belief in the democratic process and the necessity of honoring the voice of the Nigerian electorate.

Championing Democracy Through Documentation

Professor Nwosu did not allow the annulment of the June 12 elections to silence his voice. In his book, *Laying the Foundation of Nigeria’s Democracy: My Account of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election and Its Annulment*, he chronicled the events leading to the election and its aftermath. By publishing the results of the June 12 elections, he presented irrefutable evidence of MKO Abiola’s victory, reinforcing the notion that the people’s will should prevail over political machinations. This documentation serves as a historical account of a significant moment in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy and a rallying cry for future generations.

Legacy of Integrity

As we reflect on Professor Nwosu’s life and contributions, it is essential to recognize his legacy of integrity, bravery, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles. He stood as a beacon of hope during a tumultuous period in Nigerian history, proving that one individual’s resolute stand could indeed lead to monumental change. His story serves as an inspiration to current and future leaders to prioritize the will of the people over personal or political gain.

Conclusion

The passing of Professor Humphrey Nwosu is not just a loss to his family and friends but to a nation that desperately needs champions of democracy. His actions during the critical moments of June 12, 1993, solidified his place in history as a true man of democracy. As we commemorate his life, we are reminded that democracy thrives through the courage and integrity of individuals like Professor Nwosu—those who are willing to stand firm against oppression and ensure that the voice of the people is heard.

May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire generations to uphold the values of democracy, transparency, and justice in Nigeria.

BY BOLAJI AFOLABI

The writer started the day; Tuesday, March 11 with reinvigorated hopes, and great expectations. Looking forward towards positive developments around and about families, friends, colleagues, and associates. However, at about 9 in the morning, the songs changed, and melodies turned sour. Within ten minutes, a couple of calls dropped the most unexpected, unexplainable, and unthinkable news. That, Reverend Father Pius Femi Oladele, MSP, has departed the earth to join saints in heaven. Silent wishes that there could be some mix-up were erased, as Clement Oladele, Deputy Corp Marshall with the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC); brother to Rev. Father confirmed the incident in a telephone conversation with the writer. A palpable state of shock and sadness envelope the writer. In fits of anger and pain, many questions, serial puzzles, and numerous posers kept running through the mind in cinematic rapidity.

In his over three-decade ecclesiastical calling, Father Oladele traversed different locations in South Africa and Nigeria. He truly, and thoroughly had an all-inclusive perception and all-embracing approach to life, living, identified with locals anywhere he was posted. Throughout his missionary odyssey, people, and humanity was the fulcrum of his calling. He showed unequivocal commitment and consistent sacrificial contributions to the personal growth, religious advancement, and communal development of territories.The last three words, “Lerato, Leef Voort ” of the title of this Tribute is informed by Father Oladele’s laudable integration with various communities in South Africa where he served for about twenty years, and understood, spoke the native Afrikaan language with distinction. He was at home, and related freely, easily with the locals that he adopted “Lerato” meaning “Love” in Sesotho language spoken in South Africa and Lesotho, as his name.

Either in priesthood or relationship with people, Father Oladele epitomized the teachings of Jesus Christ. In whatever he does; official or personal, formal or informal, he upholds God’s counsel and teaches; “Love Your Neighbor As Yourself.” From the testimonies of people in Nigeria, South Africa, and across the world, he believed in “ministering the Word” and “ministering to the Needs” of people. According to Mr. Gideon Anosike, of St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, Bariga, Lagos; where he was the Parish Priest between 2013 and 2017, “he had a very convincing and reassuring approach to his ministerial work such that, within months of resumption, he became the darling of everybody. His love, and interest in the religious and personal development of church members was exceptional.” Corroborating, Ms. Bridget Okorie of St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Gwagwalada declared that, “he was such a wonderful Priest who was always there for members. For me, and many others, unarguably, he was one of the best Priests around.” For Mr. John Bongani of St. Kizito Catholic Church, Bohlokang-Bethlehem, South Africa; where Father Oladele served as it’s first Parish Priest, “his unique style of ministering, and transparent leadership contributed immensely to the growth of the Parish. He impacted us so much that when he was posted to another Church at Lindley Parish we all felt terribly bad.”

Undoubtedly, the chorus of an old but popular Christian song that, “wherever he goes (went), he was doing good,” resonates with the personae and personality of Father Oladele. From various accounts of Catholics, friends, colleagues, staff, family members, and many others, he lived a life of compassion, empathy, and altruism. He was extremely charismatic, genial, gracious, and had pleasant demeanour. Always positively impacting lives of not just people close to him but anybody that comes around him. Refer to him as the destiny helper of many people, you won’t be wrong. Through his teachings, love, and benevolence, many people; whose destinies were hitherto perverted, and destroyed, have been positively re-directed. For him, there was no middle-position when touching people’s lives. Prevarication and procrastination had no entry permit whenever he decides to reach-out to people.

Sir Johnson Jimoh, KSM, brother in-law to Father Oladele confirmed that, “he was a true missionary who dedicated his life to the service of God and humanity. Throughout his time on earth, he gave proper meaning to the divine assignment of missionaries by expressly touching the lives of people.” Mrs. Ireti Oladele, a sister in-law strongly believes that, “he was a gift to humanity, such a kind, gentle, loving, and compassionate soul. Anytime my children and I visit him, I always marvel at the depth of his benevolence and generosity he showers on people, and still feels he should have done more. That he is an unapologetic lover of children is an understatement. In fact, during his birthday last year, the sheer number of children from humble homes, less privileged, and the down trodden that felicitated with him was unbelievable. He was genuinely friendly with them as they flocked around him in total excitement.”

Truly, one is pleasantly surprised at the quality and quantity, as well as the space and speed in which Father Oladele extends favour and gestures to people. Like someone on a mission whose allotted time was brief, he appeared almost, always in haste to fulfill this divine assignment. Mrs. Paulina Akinlabi, a parishioner with St. Flavius Catholic Church, Oworonshoki, Lagos, where Father Oladele superintendent between June 2020 and February 2021, declared that, “though he was here for less than one year, the impact he made was far more than some other priests before him. I don’t know how he does it but he reaches out to church members who are in dire need. More importantly, he doesn’t want to be acknowledged or celebrated for touching lives, as he preferred to remain anonymous. He was such a simple, easy going, and practical priest.” According to Mr. Martins Yohana of St. Kevin Catholic Church, Nyanya, Abuja, “as an assistant Parish Priest under the leadership of Very Revd. Father Donatus Akpan in 2012, he was very popular among parishioners. He showered love and compassion to members. These virtues endeared him to many people who flocked around him for prayers, discussions, and requests after Mass. was gifted with uncommon love, compassion, and considerate virtues that was easily noticeable by people. Mr. Molu Dada, an Ilorin-based Educationist, and cousin, agreed that “it is not surprising that people eulogized these attributes in Father. As a younger cousin, I recall with nostalgia that he had these kindhearted, generous, and empathetic traits from way back. Even as a student (while in secondary school), there is nothing he can’t give; he is that good, loving, and caring.”

Father Oladele’s schoolmates; the 1981 set at St. Barnabas Secondary School, Kabba, which was one of the top grade “A” post-primary schools in the old Kwara (now Kogi) state, in a message affirmed that Oladele was, “an extraordinary phenomenon of transformation, who embody the scripture in 1 Peter 2:9.” The statement signed by Pastor (Dr) Sha’e Bebeyi, President of the Group added that, “the countless lives you ministered to are mourning your departure, while heaven rejoices at your recall to glory.” By the way, though he had the liberty to spank erring students as the Labour Perfect but Father Oladele never used the big stick to cane anybody. Asked why, he confessed that he believes moving around with the big stick will not only scare but make students comply with instructions. An ingenious strategy which some of his classmates confirmed worked.

Mr. Raphael Lethabo of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Ficksburg, South Africa; where Father Oladele was the Parish Priest, “the earth’s loss is heaven’s gain. Though I was not here when he was the Parish Priest but sweet testimonies of his great exploits, passion for members’ personal growth, and communal development are very inspiring. Since his death became public, those who knew him while he was here, and in the entire Diocese of Bethlehem have been regularly, and passionately speaking about him.” Still in shock, Mr. Fidelis, popularly called Papa Fidel was the personal driver of Father Oladele while he was in Lagos. Amid tensed and pensive moods, he asked, “why do good men die early? Why did God call Father home this early? Why has death taken away someone who touched me, and my family in very special ways? See, even after leaving Lagos for Abuja, he still extends his benevolence to me. Father was a very good man, always wanting people around him to be happy.”

From confirmed reports, it was obvious that Father Oladele knew he would end up being a priest. He was a dedicated Mass Server (Altar Boy), as a young student, at Immaculate Heart Catholic Church, Lokoja; and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Kabba, both in present day Kogi state. He continued this solemn assignment at St. Augustine’s College, Kabba, from where he moved to St. Barnabas Secondary School, also in Kabba, completed his secondary education. While working at the Kano Plastic Company; one of the biggest manufacturing industries in the northern commercial city, with strong passion and desire to build an entrepreneurial career, he received the call to Priesthood. Thereafter, he underwent priestly missionary training at the National Missionary of St. Paul, which was then in Iperu Remo, Ogun state. On June 22nd, 1991, he (and twelve others) were Ordained as Catholic Reverend Fathers of the Missionary of St. Paul (MSP); a specialized priesthood in the Roman Catholic Church, at the new National Headquarters in Gwagwalada, Abuja, by Most Revd. W.J. McCormack, the National Director, Propagation of the Faith, United States of America. He was posted to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Maiduguri, where he served for about a year under Very Revd. Father Hillary Akpunku; who (then) was a Captain with the Nigerian Army.

Following his first missionary posting, Father Oladele arrived in South Africa on January 1st, 1992, where he spent most of his priesthood life. For 19 years, he was at the Diocese of Bethlehem located in the eastern part of the Free State province. Bethlehem, is specifically situated in the Thabo Mofutsanyane region, near the popular Maluti Mountain. While there, he moved around different Parishes, and occupied notable positions, and offices. Given his love for people, he seamlessly assimilated into their culture, and spoke the Afrikaan language fluently and flawlessly. His versatility, resourcefulness, and religious prowess earned him numerous recognition and elevation. Appointed Vicar-General from 2009 to 2011; Acting Bishop of South Africa (first non-indigene); citizenship of the Republic of South Africa; Diocesan Commissioner of Oaths. He was at various times Dean of the Central Deanery (three consecutive terms); Diocesan Director of the Bishop’s Lenten Appeal; Member, College of Consultants (for eight years); Local Superior, Missionary of St. Paul in South Africa (for two terms). He was the Parish Priest of many Catholic Churches in and around the Diocese of Bethlehem including Bohlokang; Lindley; Ficksburg; Odendaalsrus; Kuttwanang; and Welkom.

After his missionary duties in South Africa, Father Oladele came back to Nigeria for his sabbatical; pending receipt of fresh posting. While in Nigeria, he was deployed to the Nyanya, Abuja Parish; under the Abuja Arch Diocese as Assistant Parish Priest to Very Revd. Father Donatus Akpan in 2012. Between 2013 and 2017, he was appointed Parish Priest of St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, Lady Lak, Bariga, Lagos. Transferred to St. Flaviis Catholic Church, Oworonshoki, Lagos, between June 2020 and February 2021. Later transferred to St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Gwagwalada, under the Parish Priest, Revd. Father Gabriel Ekoe. Sadly, he was to resume at a new Parish in the United States of America; for his next missionary posting, when he died.

Late Revd. Father Pius Femi Oladele, MSP, was born on August 17, 1961 to the family of late PA Martins Oladele, and Mrs Margaret Oladele, both from Kabba, Kogi state. Fondly called OJILATI; by schoolmates, friends, and associates, he was a broad-minded, diligent and dedicated lover of God, His Kingdom, and humanity. He lived a life of peace, contentment, sacrifice, and other enviable virtues that are anchored on the teachings of Jesus Christ. He is survived by an aged mother; siblings, Mrs. Josephine Jimoh; DCM Clement Oladele; Mrs. Christy Iluogben; Mr. Francis Oladele; Mrs. Veronica Obaloko; and Mrs. Julie Oloniruha. The Yoruba tribe believes that, “we do not mourn the dead, we celebrate their lives,” and Ghanians admonish that, “the dead are not dead, they are alive in our hearts.” Indeed, Father Oladele’s legacy of compassion, empathy, and selfless service to God and mankind; with no iota of discrimination and segregation will remain paramount in our hearts. As they say in the Afrikaan language; which he spoke with brilliance and beauty, “Lerato, Leef Voort” that is; Love, Lives On! Revd. Father Pius Femi Lerato Oladele LIVES ON!!!

* BOLAJI AFOLABI, a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.

BY BOLAJI AFOLABI

August last year, somewhere around the Wuse 2 District, Abuja; which has virtually turned to a massive business area hosted a birthday party in honour of a former lawmaker. The event, held at lunchtime was attended by about three dozen legislators; past and present, entrepreneurs, friends, associates, and others. While the party went on, somebody walked in quietly, with no airs, not chaperoned by any security personnel; as is common with most of our influential personalities and highly-placed officials. A few minutes later, the compere introduced the “discreet, and largely anonymous” person as Rt. Hon. Chinda Kingsley, Minority Leader in the House of Representatives. Surprised, a middle-aged real estate consultant sitting on the same table with the writer, whispered; Is this true? This man looks simple, ordinary, and too free.” This elicited a few comments, commentary, and compliments among those around the table.

This encapsulates Chinda Kingsley, the focus of this piece. From observations, he lives a well-cultured and non-complicated life. He is unobtrusive and not all-knowing in his interactions and relationships with people. Genial and gentle, he is a perfect specimen of humility and humanity. For him, life and living are better when you stay simple, ordinary and  avoid complications. Unconventional in operations, and sensitive in every of his dealings with people. A journalist friend who has been covering the Legislature for over two decades confirmed that, “while many of his colleagues loves being called ‘Honourable’ or ‘Right Honourable’ affixed to their names, Chinda prefers and insists on the usage of “Rep” short form of ‘Representative.’ He remains lissome and limpid in matters that have to do with good governance, legislative resourcefulness, national development, and general well-being of the ordinary people. He exemplifies grit and resilience in the fight against injustice, oppression, subjugation, and suppression of the common man. He remains an unequivocal and unapologetic believer in equity, fairness, inclusivity, and social justice.

Chinda is a trailblazer in legislative service. He was first elected into the House of Representatives in 2011, to represent the good people of Obio-Akpor federal constituency. He has achieved an unprecedented milestone by being re-elected four consecutive times; 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023. He remains the first and only lawmaker to enjoy the enviable record in his constituency and Rivers state. That his constituents have consistently invested their respective electoral franchise in him as their representative is an eloquent statement of recognition, acceptance, and performance. Between 2011 and now, he has recorded impressive legislative achievements in various roles and positions. In the 7th Assembly, as the Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Customs, he played a pivotal role in overseeing and reforming customs operations, contributing to enhanced revenue generation. Elevated to Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee in the 8th Assembly, he spearheaded the automation of records, ensuring transparency and accountability in public financial management.

Though he was not given any leadership position in the 9th Assembly, largely due to his principled stance, and adherence to the party’s directive on the Speakership position, he was very active and intentional; whenever he had opportunities to contribute to debates. His power of advocacy, fight for the down trodden, and improved service delivery by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) were vigorously pursued and passionately canvassed during Oversight functions, and necessary interface with the Executive arm of government. Recognizing his leadership qualities, his colleagues unanimously elected him as the Minority Leader of the 10th Assembly. This, represents yet another trail-blazing, and well-deserved elevation. He is the first from the “Treasure Base” state to occupy such a position. As the Leader of Opposition, he continues to advocate for democratic principles and robust legislative processes. Operating an all-inclusive, and all-embracing policy, he prefers a collegiate leadership in managing the affairs of the Minority Caucus; clear departure from past experiences.

In his capacity as the Minority Leader, Chinda has been a vocal advocate for transparent and accountable governance. He has called for timely submission of budget estimates to the National Assembly, emphasizing the importance of thorough legislative scrutiny in the interest of the Nigerian people. Additionally, he has urged robust, and positive-yielding deliberations on tax reform bills, assuring that any clauses detrimental to public welfare will be addressed, and reflecting his commitment to policies that serve the common good. Also, Chinda has been forthright, committed, and consistent in deepening democracy. His recent motion to probe the spending of bailout and take-off grants by MDAs highlights his dedication to transparency and accountability in governance. His character, capacity, and competence have made him an invaluable asset to Nigeria’s legislature. His profound understanding of legislative issues and practices has elevated representation to greater heights, and inspiring impactful contributions to national development.   His courageous and progressive approach to issues have solidified his reputation as one of the most respected members of the National Assembly.

Championing constituency development and empowerment, Chinda’s commitment to uplifting the overall living standards of the good people of Obio-Akpor federal constituency is evident through numerous initiatives. Geared towards improving the quality of life, the interventions which cuts across different sectors have remained beneficial primarily to his constituents, and people from contiguous communities and the state. On consistent bases, he facilitates yearly distribution of free JAMB forms; provides financial assistance for school fees for deserving and indigent students; provision of desks, chairs, and other furnitures; construction of buildings; capacity building and re-training programmes for teachers; and other interventions towards promoting educational advancement. Regular healthcare initiatives that includes different medical outreach programmes and interventions; facilitating institutional assistance and personal financial support to some patients that require comprehensive medical attention; and other interventions towards ensuring accessible healthcare services for his constituents.

Recognizing the importance of self-reliance, he organizes various skills acquisition and entrepreneurship training programmes in ICT; welding; snail farming; fashion designing; hair dressing; barbing and more towards equipping individuals with valuable skills that would help self sustainance and ignite their entrepreneurial development. He has been deliberate and intentional towards infrastructural development of the constituency. Through the provision of solar street lightings; interventions in the environments; and similar initiatives, there are visible and concrete measures geared towards communal development. Through the OK Chinda Youth AgriBusiness and Food Security Initiative (OYAFSI), many constituents are (still) trained to explore the various value chains towards emerging as successful entrepreneurs. Periodic competitions in table tennis, and few other sports are organized (and planned) to explore, develop, and deepen the potentials of youths. Additionally, the various constituency empowerment programmes which cuts across different vocations, and trade includes distribution of buses and tricycles; facilitation of grants, and financial support to semi and informal groups and individuals, as well as some other initiatives.

Described variously as forthright, sincere, and tolerant, Chinda embodies the virtues of loyalty and friendship. Reputed for his knack for hard work, and selfless sacrifices towards the  development of colleagues, he can be described as a paragon of integrity and excellence. A deeply detribalized personality with friends from different parts of the country, he is loved by many people within and without the National Assembly, and Rivers state. Corroborating, Hon. Dum Dekor, Chairman, Rivers state Caucus in the House declared that, “he is such a sacrificial and selfless person. He goes out of his way towards ensuring that his colleagues get the best.” Hon.Solomon Bob, Chairman, Committee on Capital Market &  Institutions declared that, “he has made very impactful contributions to the career growth of many people.” For Hon. Kelechi Nwogu, Deputy Chairman, Committee on Agriculture Production & Services, “no word is big enough to describe Leader. He is extremely accessible, transparent and accountable. In spite his intelligence and brilliance, he gives room for other opinions on any matter.”

While Barrister Abdu Mahmud, a friend eulogized Chinda as, “a very good man, whose  commitment to true friendship, and loyalty to shared vision is always encouraging,” Rimamnde Shawulu, Chief Executive Officer, Ndeya TV & Radio, said, “that Chinda is respected and loved by many people is not a misnomer. Simply put: he has attributes that stand him out.” For TeeJay Yusuf, Managing Director, 2511 Limited, “he is a distinguished personality whose unwavering dedication and exemplary service to friends, constituency, state, and nation have been profoundly impactful.” Hon. Emman Ekon believes, “not many people can be as tolerant, kindhearted, and committed to friendship like Chinda.”

On the occasion of the birthday of a legislative collossus whose life, and politics exemplifies service, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of the society, we pray that his journey continues to inspire. Also, we wish that his contributions leave an indelible mark on the path towards a more progressive, prosperous, and just nation.

Happy Birthday; Leader!!!

* BOLAJI AFOLABI, a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.