Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publicly release the academic certificates and credentials submitted by all candidates contesting elective positions ahead of the 2027 general election. Obi made the appeal in response to questions on INEC nomination forms regarding certificate authenticity and the mental fitness of political aspirants.
Obi Advocates for Transparency in Electoral Process
The former Anambra State governor emphasized that publishing such documents would promote accountability and allow Nigerians to properly assess candidates seeking public office. According to Obi, transparency in the electoral process is necessary to rebuild trust and ensure leaders meet required standards.
“Have you ever presented a forged certificate to INEC? Again, the answer is either Yes or No. This raises another important question: Why shouldn’t INEC, in the interest of ensuring that our leaders are exemplary in following the rules and to strengthen public confidence in our electoral process, publish the academic certificates and credentials submitted by every candidate seeking elective office?” Obi questioned.
He added, “Transparency strengthens democracy and builds public trust. Nigeria’s problems are too serious for politics as usual. It is time for leadership defined by competence, character, capacity, compassion, and commitment to service.”
Obi Links Leadership to National Challenges
Obi also questioned whether Nigeria’s current political leadership was addressing major challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship, and alleged misuse of public resources. He argued that a responsible government should treat these issues as emergencies by bringing together security agencies, experts, and community leaders to find lasting solutions.
The development comes amid legal issues surrounding the NDC’s registration. Seriake Dickson, the party’s National Leader, recently confirmed that Obi’s name had been uploaded on the INEC portal.
Presidency Dismisses Obi's Threat
Previously, the Presidency dismissed concerns that Peter Obi could become a major challenge to President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, stated that the Tinubu administration is confident of its chances and believes its record in office will help secure victory at the polls. Dare made these comments during an interview on Mic On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye, emphasizing that the government is focused on delivering results rather than worrying about opposition figures.
