‘No Objection’, Obi Welcomes Scrutiny of His UNN Academic Records
…Urges Other Presidential Candidates to Do Same
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has welcomed scrutiny of his academic records from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), saying he has absolutely no objection to their release.
In a statement on Tuesday, Obi acknowledged reports concerning individuals and groups involved in a legal action seeking Certified True Copies (CTCs) of his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from UNN, as well as other academic records and credentials relating to his admission into the university.
He disclosed that the university awarded him the degree in 1984.
“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records. 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.
“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.”
Obi expressed a strong belief in transparency and accountability, particularly for those seeking public office.
However, he pointed out that public scrutiny must be fair, lawful, and applied consistently to everyone seeking to lead Nigeria.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that, as a presidential candidate seeking Nigerians’ trust to lead the country, he welcomes legitimate public interest in his background, qualifications, and record.
Obi further expressed readiness to subject himself to the level of scrutiny that should reasonably be expected of anyone seeking the highest office in the country.
He argued that 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 encouraged every presidential candidate to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny.
According to him, doing so should not be regarded as an inconvenience or an attack, but rather as an opportunity to strengthen public confidence, promote accountability, and rebuild Nigerians’ trust in those who seek to govern them.
Obi emphasised that leadership must reflect the values expected of the society leaders hope to build.
“If we desire a Nigeria founded on transparency, integrity, accountability, and respect for institutions, those values must begin with those who seek to lead it,” he stated.
He added: “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.”
