Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish academic certificates and credentials of all candidates seeking elective offices for the 2027 general elections.
The call came on Tuesday after Obi completed his INEC nomination form. He reflected on questions in the form about mental fitness and certificate authenticity.
Obi highlighted a specific section asking candidates: “Have you ever presented a forged certificate to INEC?” He described the yes or no response as raising deeper issues.
“Why shouldn’t INEC, in the interest of ensuring that our leaders are exemplary in following the rules and to strengthen public confidence in our electoral process, publish the academic certificates and credentials submitted by every candidate seeking elective office?” he queried.
The former Anambra governor argued that transparency would enhance accountability. It would reinforce integrity among those aspiring to lead.
“Transparency strengthens democracy and builds public trust,” Obi stated. He stressed that Nigeria’s challenges demand leadership defined by competence, character, capacity, compassion, and commitment to service.
This latest push builds on Obi’s earlier 2025 statements. Then, he called for rigorous verification of certificates following controversies, including the resignation of a minister over academic record discrepancies.
In those remarks, he criticized INEC for limited due diligence. He noted that forgery complaints are often dismissed as pre-election matters by courts.
Obi referenced practices in other countries like Indonesia. There, presenting forged documents leads to immediate disqualification and prosecution.
Certificate forgery remains a sensitive issue in Nigerian politics. Past allegations, including those surrounding 2023 presidential candidates, continue to fuel public skepticism.
Reactions on X echoed support for scrutiny. Some users pointed to longstanding doubts over certain high-profile submissions accepted in previous cycles.
Obi maintained that national survival, security, and stability must outweigh partisan interests. He urged immediate action to restore faith in the democratic process.
INEC is yet to respond publicly to the demand as preparations for 2027 intensify.
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!