The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant authorities to verify and authenticate the academic and professional certificates of all political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Obi emphasized that the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy depends on truth, transparency, and integrity in the process of leadership selection.
He also commended the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, who stepped down amid controversies over discrepancies in his academic records.
Describing Nnaji’s resignation as “a decent and honourable step,” the former Anambra State governor recalled that former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, had also resigned under similar circumstances during the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.
“These instances remind us that such matters are not trivial; they constitute serious criminal offences,” Obi said.
He urged INEC to immediately begin verifying the certificates submitted by all political candidates from the presidency to local government councillors to safeguard the integrity of the 2027 general elections.
“It is appalling that our electoral body carries out little or no due diligence in confirming certificates submitted by candidates. Continuous discrepancies, false declarations, and forged credentials undermine the credibility of our democracy,” he stated.
Obi further stressed that if Nigeria truly desires a free, fair, and credible 2027 election, the process of integrity must begin immediately.
“INEC has enough time to investigate past complaints about various forms of forgery and false claims. Every incumbent and aspiring candidate must submit all academic certificates immediately for verification and public accessibility, clearly detailing schools attended from primary to university level,” he said.
“Let truth, transparency, and accountability form the foundation of leadership in our dear country. Only then can we build a Nigeria where public service is anchored on honour, not deceit. We must get it right.”
What you should know
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flag bearer and former governor of Anambra State, has been a consistent advocate for transparency, accountability, and reforms in Nigeria’s governance system.
His latest call underscores growing public concern over credential scandals among political office holders.
