Obi asks UNN to release his academic records

Etim Ekpimah

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has given the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, his consent to release his academic records amid reports of a legal action seeking certified copies of his educational documents.

Obi said he had no objection to the release of his certificates, academic records and other official documents relating to his admission and studies at the university.

He made the position known in a statement posted on X on Tuesday, following reports circulating on social media about a legal request for certified true copies of his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy and other academic credentials.

“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” Obi said.

He urged the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to make the documents available upon legitimate request and within the limits permitted by law.

Obi also said he had no objection to other educational institutions he attended, in Nigeria or abroad, releasing his academic records in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.

The former Anambra State governor said he believed strongly in transparency and accountability, particularly for people seeking public office.

“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.

Obi said he was prepared to undergo the level of scrutiny reasonably expected of anyone seeking the country’s highest office, but stressed that such scrutiny must be fair, lawful and applied consistently to all presidential candidates.

He challenged other presidential contenders to make their educational qualifications and relevant academic records available for public scrutiny.

“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 said.

Obi said transparency, integrity and accountability should begin with those seeking to lead 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,” he added.