Peter Obi Welcomes Scrutiny of Academic Records, Challenges Rivals to Do Same

By Our Reporter

Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr. Peter Obi, has welcomed legitimate scrutiny of his academic credentials, declaring that he has “absolutely no objection” to the release of his university records and certificates.

Obi’s position follows reports of legal action by an individual or group seeking Certified True Copies, CTCs, of his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, awarded by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, in 1984, alongside other records relating to his admission and studies.

In a statement, Obi urged UNN to make his academic certificates and other official records available upon legitimate request, within the limits permitted by law.

“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” he said.

He added that other educational institutions he attended, both within and outside Nigeria, could equally release his academic records in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.

Obi said transparency and accountability were essential for anyone seeking public office, stressing that Nigerians had a right to scrutinise the qualifications and records of those seeking their mandate.

“As a presidential candidate seeking the trust of Nigerians to lead our country, I welcome legitimate public interest in my background, qualifications, and record,” he said.

He, however, cautioned that such scrutiny must be fair, lawful and applied consistently to all presidential candidates.

Obi also challenged other candidates to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny, saying doing so would help strengthen public confidence and rebuild trust in political leadership.

“Doing so should not be regarded as an inconvenience or an attack. Rather, it is an opportunity to strengthen public confidence, promote accountability, and rebuild the trust of Nigerians in those who seek to govern them,” he said.

The NDC candidate maintained that transparency, integrity and accountability must begin with those seeking to lead the country.

“If we desire a Nigeria founded on transparency, integrity, accountability, and respect for institutions, those values must begin with those who seek to lead it,” Obi stated.

He reaffirmed his willingness to have his academic background subjected to legitimate scrutiny, concluding: “Those who ask Nigerians for their trust must also be willing to earn that trust through openness and accountability.”