NHRC, Humphrey Nwosu Centre to Host June 12 Memorial Lecture on Electoral Integrity Ahead of 2027 Polls
By Raphael Ekpang
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in partnership with the Prof. Humphrey Nwosu Centre for Democracy and Human Rights, has announced plans to host the 2026 June 12 Memorial Lecture aimed at promoting national dialogue on democracy, electoral integrity, human rights and democratic accountability in Nigeria.
The event is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, and is expected to bring together key stakeholders from across the democratic and governance spectrum.
Briefing journalists on Monday in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN), said the Commission remains committed to its statutory mandate of promoting, protecting and enforcing the human rights of all persons in Nigeria.
According to him, the Commission’s responsibilities extend beyond human rights protection to supporting democratic governance, strengthening institutions, promoting accountability and safeguarding the fundamental freedoms of citizens.
Ojukwu noted that the partnership with the Prof. Humphrey Nwosu Centre for Democracy and Human Rights aligns with the Commission’s commitment to advancing democratic values and civic participation.
He said the memorial lecture comes at a critical period as Nigeria prepares for another cycle of general elections. Saying, “According to the electoral timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for February 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will follow thereafter.
“The theme of this year’s lecture, “Electoral Integrity and the Future of Credible Elections in Nigeria,” is designed to provide a platform for election managers, political leaders, civil society organisations, security agencies, the media, academics, development partners and citizens to reflect on democratic accountability, electoral integrity, peaceful participation and public trust in democratic institutions.”
The NHRC boss emphasised that democracy can only thrive where citizens actively participate in governance, the rule of law is respected, justice prevails, and electoral processes remain transparent, inclusive and credible.
He described the June 12, 1993 presidential election as one of the defining moments in Nigeria’s democratic history, symbolising the collective aspirations of Nigerians for justice, transparency, accountability, national unity and democratic freedom.
According to him, the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists and ordinary citizens during the struggle for democratic rule laid the foundation for the democratic institutions and reforms currently enjoyed in the country.
Ojukwu also highlighted the role of the Prof. Humphrey Nwosu Centre for Democracy and Human Rights, established to preserve and advance the democratic legacy of June 12, as a leading platform for democratic research, civic education, leadership development, electoral integrity advocacy, human rights promotion and public policy engagement in Nigeria and across Africa.
He noted that both institutions share common values centred on justice, accountability, transparency, inclusion, democratic participation, institutional integrity and good governance.
The event is expected to feature distinguished speakers, policymakers, members of the judiciary, former public office holders, political parties, civil society organisations, youth groups, students, development partners and members of the media.
As part of activities marking the occasion, the Centre will formally unveil its programmes on democratic thought leadership, research, advocacy, leadership training and human rights advancement.
Ojukwu observed that democratic systems around the world continue to face challenges such as voter apathy, misinformation, political intolerance, electoral violence, declining public trust in institutions and governance deficits. He stressed the need for sustained investment in civic education, democratic reforms, electoral transparency and institutional accountability.
“In recognition of outstanding contributions to electoral integrity and democratic development, the event will also feature the presentation of the Election Integrity and Democracy Award to Prof. Nnenna Oti for her demonstrated courage, transparency, professionalism, accountability and commitment to democratic values in service to the nation.”
The NHRC reaffirmed its commitment to working with government institutions, civil society organisations, development partners and citizens to advance democracy, accountability, human rights protection and public enlightenment in Nigeria.
Ojukwu called on Nigerians and democratic stakeholders to actively participate in the memorial lecture and contribute to ongoing efforts aimed at strengthening the country’s democratic institutions ahead of future elections.
While fielding questions from journalists, Ojukwu maintained that the June 12, 1993, presidential election in Nigeria has remained the most adjudged free, fair and credible election ever conducted in Nigeria.
