The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant authorities to begin immediate verification and authentication of all academic and professional certificates submitted by political office aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a post shared via his official X handle on Thursday, Obi stressed that Nigeria must not continue to allow “dishonesty and criminality” to define its leadership.
Citing the recent resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, over discrepancies in his academic certificates, as well as the 2018 resignation of former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration over an NYSC certificate controversy, Obi described both actions as “decent and honourable steps.”
The former Anambra State governor emphasized that certificate forgery and false declarations are serious criminal offences that erode public trust and damage the integrity of the nation’s democracy.
“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,” Obi wrote.
He further called for a comprehensive national review of the qualification and background verification process for all public office holders, citing Ghana as an example of a country that thoroughly cross-checks candidates’ educational credentials before elections.
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Obi lamented that Nigeria’s electoral body has done little to ensure due diligence in the verification process, warning that continued laxity could jeopardize the credibility of the 2027 polls.
“If we truly desire a free, fair, and credible 2027 election, the process of integrity must begin now,” he said, urging INEC to investigate past complaints of certificate forgery and to make candidates’ academic records publicly accessible.
He concluded by reaffirming his call for transparency and accountability in governance, saying:
“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. A New Nigeria is POssible.”