ABUJA, Oct 10 (The African Portal) – Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has called on Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other authorities to verify and authenticate the academic and professional certificates of all political candidates before the 2027 general elections.
In a post on X on Wednesday, Obi said the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy depended on “truth, transparency and integrity” in the leadership selection process.
He commended the resignation of Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, following controversy over discrepancies in his academic records, describing it as “a decent and honourable step.”
Obi also recalled that former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun resigned under similar circumstances during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
“These instances remind us that such matters are not trivial; they constitute serious criminal offences,” he said.
Obi urged INEC to begin verifying the credentials of all candidates — from the presidency to local government level — to ensure credibility in the 2027 elections.
“It is appalling that our electoral body carries out little or no due diligence in confirming certificates submitted by candidates,” he said. “Continuous discrepancies, false declarations and forged credentials undermine the credibility of our democracy.”
He said Nigeria must start the process of integrity now if it aims to achieve free, fair and credible elections in 2027.
“INEC has enough time to investigate past complaints about forgery and false claims,” he added. “Every incumbent and aspiring candidate must submit their academic certificates for verification and public access, detailing schools attended from primary to university level.”
“Let truth, transparency and accountability form the foundation of leadership in our country,” Obi said. “Only then can we build a Nigeria where public service is anchored on honour, not deceit.”
