Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has declared that he has no objection to the release of his academic records amid reports of legal action seeking certified copies of his educational documents.
Obi made the position known in a statement posted on X on Tuesday, following reports circulating on social media about a legal action reportedly seeking certified true copies of his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy and other documents relating to his admission and studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
The former Anambra State governor said he had given his consent for the university to make available his academic records and other official documents, subject to applicable laws and established procedures.
“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” Obi said.
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He further urged the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to make his academic certificates, records and other official documents available upon any legitimate request, within the limits permitted by law.
Obi also extended the request to other educational institutions he had attended, both within and outside Nigeria, saying they could make his academic records available in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.
The presidential candidate said he believed strongly in transparency and accountability, particularly among individuals seeking public office.
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According to him, anyone seeking the highest political office in Nigeria should be prepared to face reasonable scrutiny concerning their background, qualifications and public record.
“As a presidential candidate seeking the trust of Nigerians to lead our country, I welcome legitimate public interest in my background, qualifications, and record,” Obi 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.”
However, Obi stressed that public scrutiny must be conducted fairly, lawfully and consistently, insisting that the same standard should apply to all presidential candidates.
He said candidates seeking to lead Nigeria should be willing to demonstrate openness and accountability rather than viewing legitimate scrutiny as an attack.
Obi subsequently challenged other presidential contenders to make their educational qualifications and relevant academic records available for public examination.
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“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 stated.
The former governor added that transparency, integrity and accountability should begin with those seeking the mandate to govern the country.
“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 added.
The development comes as political activities gradually intensify ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, with prospective presidential candidates facing increasing public scrutiny over their qualifications, records and political backgrounds.
Obi’s decision to publicly consent to the release of his academic records is expected to further fuel discussions around the educational credentials of presidential aspirants and the level of transparency expected from those seeking the nation’s highest political office.
