Yemi Obafemi
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant agencies to carry out a thorough verification and authentication of all academic and professional certificates submitted by political candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
Obi made the call on Thursday in a post shared via his X handle, following the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr. Uche Nnaji, over allegations of certificate forgery.
He described Nnaji’s resignation as a “decent and honourable step,” commending him for taking responsibility amid the controversy surrounding discrepancies in his academic credentials. Obi also recalled the resignation of former Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration over issues related to her NYSC certificate, noting that such cases highlight the seriousness of certificate-related offences.
“As we approach the 2027 general elections, INEC and all relevant agencies must take decisive steps to verify and authenticate all academic and professional certificates of every candidate—from the President down to local government councillors,” Obi stated. “We cannot continue to allow dishonesty and criminality to sit at the heart of leadership.”
He further urged that Nigeria must emulate countries like Ghana, which conduct thorough cross-checks of candidates’ educational qualifications before elections. Obi expressed concern that the electoral body performs little or no due diligence in confirming the authenticity of certificates submitted by political aspirants.
He wrote: “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 said.
“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.
“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.”
