Obi welcomes scrutiny of academic records, asks UNN to release certificates
Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), says he has no objection to the release of his academic records and certificates for legitimate scrutiny.
Obi, in a statement on Tuesday, said his attention had been drawn to reports circulating on social media about 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.
He said he had no objection to the release of the degree certificate or other academic records relating to his admission and studies at the university.
“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” Obi said.
He asked the university, within the limits permitted by law, to make available his academic certificates, records and other official documents relating to his admission and studies upon a legitimate request.
Obi also said he had no objection to other educational institutions he attended, in Nigeria and abroad, making his academic records available in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.
He said transparency and accountability were particularly important for people seeking public office, but added that public scrutiny must be fair, lawful and applied consistently to all candidates.
“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.
“I am prepared to subject myself to the level of scrutiny that should reasonably be expected of anyone seeking the highest office in our country.”
Obi said those seeking public office should demonstrate through their words and actions that they had nothing to conceal from the people they sought to serve.
He also called on other presidential candidates to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny.
“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.
Obi said leadership should reflect the values expected of the society Nigerians seek to build, including transparency, integrity, accountability and respect for institutions.
“I therefore welcome the scrutiny of my academic background and remain committed to the principle that those who ask Nigerians for their trust must also be willing to earn that trust through openness and accountability,” he said.
