By Harry Awurumibe, Editor, Abuja Bureau
Apparently sure of his personal integrity, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has given his alma mater the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) an express permission to go ahead and release his academic records, saying he has nothing to hide about his educational background.
Obi disclosed this in a statement posted on X on Tuesday amid reports of a legal action seeking certified true copies of his degree certificate and other documents relating to his admission and studies at the university.
The former Anambra State governor said he had no objection to the release of the requested records, provided such disclosure complied with relevant laws and institutional procedures.
He also extended the same consent to other institutions he attended in Nigeria and abroad, urging them to make his academic records available upon legitimate requests and within the limits permitted by law.
“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” Obi said.
“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.
“I equally have no objection to other educational institutions, within and outside Nigeria, which I attended, making my academic records available in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.”
He maintained that public scrutiny was a legitimate part of seeking the presidency, particularly when it concerns a candidate’s qualifications, background and record.
According to him, Nigerians have the right to examine the credentials of those seeking their mandate, but such scrutiny must be conducted lawfully and applied equally to all candidates.
Obi said he was prepared to undergo the level of scrutiny reasonably expected of anyone seeking to occupy the highest political office in Nigeria.
He added that candidates should view the public examination of their qualifications as an opportunity to demonstrate openness rather than as an attack.
“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.
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“Those who seek to lead must be willing to demonstrate, through both their words and actions, that they have nothing to conceal from the people they aspire to serve.” he said.
The NDC candidate subsequently called on other presidential contenders to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for public scrutiny.
He argued that such transparency would help strengthen public confidence in political candidates, promote accountability and address the growing distrust between Nigerians and those seeking political office.
