Dare Babalola
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to verify and authenticate the academic and professional certificates of all candidates vying for positions in the 2027 general elections.
Obi’s call comes on the heels of the resignation of Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, over discrepancies in his academic certificates. He also cited the example of a former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, who resigned over a similar issue.
In a post he made via X on Thursday, the former Anambra governor said the first step to having free and fair elections is to vet all credentials submitted by public officials, noting that INEC has enough time to carry out the exercise.
He wrote, “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. We cannot continue to allow dishonesty and criminality to sit at the heart of leadership.”
“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. If we truly desire a free, fair, and credible 2027 election, the process of integrity must begin now.
“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,” Obi added.
The former presidential candidate also praised the resignation of Nnaji saying, “It is commendable that the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, has resigned following the controversy surrounding discrepancies in his academic certificates. That is a decent and honourable step.”
He, however, stated that, “These instances remind us that such matters are not trivial; they constitute serious criminal offences.”
He urged the electioneering body to emulate Ghana, stating that the country has “set an example by thoroughly cross-checking the educational claims and credentials of all candidates before elections. Nigeria must not do less”.
“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,” Obi declared.
