The 2027 presidential aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has called on the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to release his academic records following reports of a legal action seeking certified true copies of his university certificates and other admission documents.
Obi made the call in a statement posted on X on Tuesday, saying he had no objection to the release of his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, which he said was awarded by the university in 1984, as well as other records relating to his admission and studies.
His statement came amid reports circulating on social media about a legal action by an individual or group seeking certified true copies of his degree certificate and other academic credentials.
“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor urged the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to make his academic certificates, records and other official documents available whenever there is a legitimate request and where 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 also said other educational institutions he attended in Nigeria and abroad could release his academic records in line with applicable laws and procedures.
He said transparency and accountability were particularly important for those seeking public office, while stressing that scrutiny should be conducted fairly and within the law.
“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 said he welcomed legitimate public interest in his background, qualifications and record as he prepares to seek the presidency in 2027.
“As a presidential candidate seeking the trust of Nigerians to lead our country, I welcome legitimate public interest in my background, qualifications, and record. 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 said.
He further challenged other presidential aspirants to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for public scrutiny.
“I encourage every presidential candidate to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny,” Obi said.
According to him, such scrutiny should be seen as an avenue to build public confidence and promote accountability rather than as an attack on political candidates.
“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 leadership should embody transparency, integrity, accountability and respect for institutions, saying those seeking Nigerians’ trust must be willing to demonstrate openness.
“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,” Obi said.
