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 offices, arguing that the move would enhance transparency and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Obi made the call in a statement shared on his Facebook page on Tuesday while reflecting on the questions contained in the INEC nomination form completed by candidates.
He pointed to a question in Section E of the form, which asks whether a candidate has ever been adjudged a lunatic or declared to be of unsound mind. According to him, the question raises broader concerns about whether Nigeria’s political leadership is demonstrating the qualities of sound judgment and responsible governance.
The former Anambra State governor lamented that the nation’s worsening security and economic challenges should take precedence over political activities.
“When Nigerians, including children and security personnel, are being abducted, citizens cannot travel safely on our highways, millions are uncertain where their next meal will come from, and billions are allegedly being wasted through non-existent agencies and projects, should politics really be our primary focus?” he asked.
Obi maintained that a responsible government would declare the country’s security and humanitarian challenges a national emergency and mobilise security agencies, experts, community leaders, and other stakeholders to address them without delay.
He further highlighted another question in the nomination form asking whether a candidate had ever presented a forged certificate to INEC, insisting that the electoral commission should, in the interest of openness and accountability, publish the academic credentials submitted by all candidates.
“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 said.
He concluded his message with his signature campaign slogan: “A New Nigeria is POssible.”
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