The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr. Peter Obi, has directed the University of Nigeria Nsukka, UNN, to release his academic records to those seeking it.
In a statement on his verified media handle on Tuesday, Obi said the release should be in accordance to “the limits permitted by law.”
The statement reads: “My attention has been drawn to reports circulating on social media concerning a legal action by an individual or group seeking Certified True Copies (CTCs) of my Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, awarded to me in 1984 by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), as well as other academic records and credentials relating to my admission into the University.
“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. 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 added that he believes “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 argued that “as a presidential candidate seeking the trust of Nigerians to lead our country,” he welcomes “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. 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 challenged “every presidential candidate to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny.”
