2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has asked the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), to release his academic records following reports of a legal action seeking certified copies of his university certificates and admission documents.
Obi made the request in a statement posted on X on Tuesday.
He said he had no objection to the release of his Bachelor of Arts (B.A) degree in Philosophy, which he said he obtained from the university in 1984, as well as other records relating to his admission and studies.
“I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” Obi said.
He asked the university to make his certificates and other official documents available whenever there is a legitimate request, subject to the law.
“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.
Obi also said other institutions he attended in Nigeria and outside the country could release his academic records in line with the relevant laws and procedures.
According to him, transparency and accountability are important, especially for people seeking public office.
“I believe strongly in transparency and accountability, particularly for those who seek the privilege of public office,” he said.
He, however, called for public scrutiny to be conducted fairly and lawfully.
Obi said he welcomed legitimate questions about his background, qualifications and record as he seeks the support of Nigerians ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
“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 also called on other presidential candidates to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for public scrutiny.
“I encourage every presidential candidate to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny,” Obi said.
He said such scrutiny should be seen as a way of building public confidence rather than as an attack.
“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 added that those seeking public office should be willing to demonstrate transparency, integrity and respect for institutions.
“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 said.
