Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi has asked the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to release his academic records. This request follows reports of legal action seeking certified copies of his university credentials and admission documents.
According to The PUNCH, Obi made the request in a statement posted on X on Tuesday. He said he had no objection to the release of his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, awarded by UNN in 1984. Furthermore, he had no objection to the release of other records relating to his admission and studies at the institution.
“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” Obi said.
His statement followed reports that legal proceedings had been initiated to obtain Certified True Copies of his degree certificate. In addition, there are reports seeking other academic records.
Obi asks UNN to release documents
The former Anambra State governor said the university should make the documents available whenever a legitimate request is made. Furthermore, he said the disclosure should be permitted by law.
“I respectfully request that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, within the limits permitted by law, make available, upon legitimate request, my academic certificates, records, and other official documents relating to my admission and studies at the University,” he said.
Obi extended the request to other educational institutions he attended within and outside Nigeria. He said they could also release his records in accordance with relevant laws and procedures.
He said people seeking public office should be prepared to face scrutiny. However, he maintained that such investigations must be conducted fairly and lawfully.
“I believe strongly in transparency and accountability, particularly for those who seek the privilege of public office. Public scrutiny must, however, be fair, lawful, and applied consistently to everyone who seeks to lead our nation,” he said.
Obi challenges other presidential candidates
Obi, who is contesting the 2027 presidential election, said he welcomed legitimate questions about his background and qualifications.
“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.”
He also challenged other presidential candidates to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny.
“I encourage every presidential candidate to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny,” Obi said.
He argued that scrutiny of candidates’ credentials should not be regarded as an attack. Instead, it should be seen as an opportunity to strengthen confidence in those seeking public office.
“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 added that political leaders should demonstrate 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.
