Peter Obi urges UNN to release his academic records

Peter Obi, the 2027 NDC presidential candidate, has requested that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, furnish his academic records in response to reports of legal proceedings seeking Certified True Copies of his university certificates and related admission documentation.

In a statement released on Tuesday via X, Obi expressed his willingness to have his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, conferred by the university in 1984, along with all other academic records pertaining to his admission and academic tenure at the institution, disclosed to the public.

This statement was issued following social media reports regarding legal action initiated by an individual or organization to obtain CTCs of his degree certificate and additional academic credentials.

"I wish to affirm unequivocally that I maintain no objection to the disclosure of these records," Obi stated.

He urged the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to provide his academic certificates, records, and official documentation in response to legitimate requests and in accordance with legal provisions.

"I respectfully urge that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, consistent with applicable legal restrictions, furnish, upon legitimate request, my academic certificates, records, and official documentation concerning my admission and academic pursuits at the University," he remarked.

Obi further indicated his acceptance of other educational institutions he has attended, both domestically and internationally, releasing his academic records pursuant to relevant legislation and established protocols.

He emphasized his commitment to transparency and accountability, particularly for individuals pursuing elected positions, while simultaneously advocating that such examination be executed in a fair and lawful manner.

“I believe 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 said.

Obi, who is seeking to contest the 2027 presidential election, said he welcomed legitimate public interest in his background, qualifications and record.

“As a presidential candidate seeking the trust of Nigerians to lead our country, I welcome 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,” he said.

He also challenged other presidential aspirants 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 viewed as an opportunity to strengthen public confidence and promote accountability 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 said leadership should reflect the values expected of the society the country seeks to build, including transparency, integrity, accountability 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,” Obi said.