2027: Obi challenges presidential candidates to open certificates to scrutiny

By Beifoh Osewele

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has challenged his rivals in the 2027 presidential race to open their academic qualifications and relevant records to public scrutiny, declaring that those seeking Nigeria’s highest office must demonstrate that they have nothing to conceal.

Obi threw the challenge as he authorised the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and other institutions he attended within and outside Nigeria to release his academic records upon legitimate request and in accordance with applicable laws.

The former Anambra State governor’s declaration comes amid legal action by former Labour Party National Publicity Secretary, Abayomi Arabambi, seeking the release of records relating to Obi’s educational qualifications.

Arabambi had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking orders compelling institutions, including UNN, to release Obi’s academic and related records.

Obi, however, said he was prepared to subject himself to the level of scrutiny expected of anyone seeking to become President.

“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 specifically asked UNN to release documents relating to his admission and studies at the institution.

“I respectfully request that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, within the limits permitted by law, make available, upon legitimate request, my academic certificates, records, and other official documents relating to my admission and studies at the University,” Obi said.

He extended the authorisation to other institutions he attended within and outside Nigeria, asking them to release his records in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.

Obi then challenged other presidential candidates to demonstrate similar openness by making their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny.

“Those who seek to lead must be willing to demonstrate, through both their words and actions, that they have nothing to conceal from the people they aspire to serve,” he said.

According to him, disclosure of academic records should not be regarded as an attack on a candidate but as an opportunity to strengthen confidence in those seeking public office.

“Doing so should not be regarded as an inconvenience or an attack, but as an opportunity to strengthen public confidence, promote accountability, and rebuild the trust of Nigerians in those who seek to govern them,” Obi said. He stressed that public scrutiny should be fair, lawful and applied consistently to all presidential candidates.

“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,” he said.

Obi maintained that openness about the backgrounds and qualifications of those seeking public office would strengthen accountability and public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

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