Peter Obi Urges INEC To Publish Academic Credentials of All Election Candidates
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to make public the academic certificates and credentials submitted by all candidates seeking elective office.
Obi said such a move would promote transparency, strengthen public confidence and deepen accountability within Nigeria’s electoral process.
The former Anambra State governor made the call in a Facebook post while reflecting on questions contained in the INEC nomination form completed by candidates.
According to him, one of the questions in Section E of the form asks whether an aspirant has ever been adjudged a lunatic or declared to be of unsound mind — a provision he said raised broader concerns about the quality of leadership in the country.
Obi questioned whether current political priorities reflect the realities facing ordinary Nigerians, particularly amid economic hardship and security concerns.
“When Nigerians, including children and security personnel, are being abducted into the bushes, citizens cannot travel safely on our highways and millions are uncertain where their next meal will come from, should politics really be our primary preoccupation?” he asked.
He argued that the country’s security and humanitarian challenges require urgent national attention and called for stronger coordination among security agencies, experts, community leaders and relevant stakeholders.
Obi also referenced another section of the nomination form that asks whether a candidate has ever submitted a forged certificate to INEC.
According to him, making submitted academic credentials publicly available would enhance openness and allow Nigerians to independently assess those seeking public office.
“Transparency strengthens democracy and builds public trust. Nigeria’s problems are too serious for politics as usual,” Obi stated.
He added that the country needs leadership driven by competence, character, capacity, compassion and commitment to public service.
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