Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate for the 2027 presidential election, Peter Obi has said he has no objection to the legitimate release of his academic records following reports of legal action seeking Certified True Copies (CTCs) of his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, awarded by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), in 1984.
Obi made the clarification in a statement responding to reports circulating on social media concerning efforts by an individual or group to obtain copies of his degree certificate, other academic records, and documents relating to his admission into the university.
“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” Obi said.
He called on the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to make his academic certificates, records, and other official documents available upon legitimate request, within the limits permitted by law. The former Anambra State governor also said he had no objection to other educational institutions he attended, both in Nigeria and abroad, making his academic records available in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.
Transparency and Accountability
Obi said transparency and accountability were particularly important for individuals seeking public office, while stressing that public scrutiny should be fair, lawful, and applied consistently to all presidential aspirants.
“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.
He added that those seeking the highest office in the country should be prepared to undergo reasonable scrutiny and demonstrate, through their words and actions, that they had nothing to conceal from the public.
A Call for Consistent Scrutiny
Obi further encouraged every presidential candidate to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny. He said such disclosure should not be regarded as an inconvenience or an attack, but as an opportunity to strengthen public confidence, promote accountability, and rebuild Nigerians’ trust in those seeking to govern the country.
“Leadership must reflect the values we expect from the society we hope to build,” Obi said, urging political leaders to uphold transparency, integrity, accountability, and respect for institutions.
He concluded by reaffirming his willingness to subject his academic background to legitimate scrutiny, adding: “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
