Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant authorities to begin verifying the academic and professional credentials of all political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obi said the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy depends on truth, transparency, and integrity in the leadership selection process

“As we approach the 2027 general elections, INEC and all relevant agencies must take decisive steps to verify and authenticate all academic and professional certificates of every candidate—from the President down to local government councillors,” Obi said in a tweet on Thursday.

“We cannot continue to allow dishonesty and criminality to sit at the heart of leadership.

“As a matter of urgency, this is the time for a comprehensive national review of the qualification and background verification process for all public office holders.

“Other nations, like Ghana, have set an example by thoroughly cross-checking the educational claims and credentials of all candidates before elections. Nigeria must not do less.”

He made the call while commending the resignation of Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, who stepped down amid controversy over alleged discrepancies in his academic records.

Obi described Nnaji’s decision as “a decent and honourable step,” noting that accountability in public office should be a standard, not an exception.

The former Anambra State governor also referenced the 2018 resignation of former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun over a similar credentials scandal.

He noted that “these instances remind us that such matters are not trivial; they constitute serious criminal offences.”

He criticized INEC for what he described as a lack of due diligence in verifying certificates submitted by candidates.

Obi then urged the commission to immediately start a thorough review of all documents submitted by political aspirants from presidential candidates to local government councillors.

Obi noted that the integrity of the 2027 elections must be built on accountability and transparency from the onset.

‘It is appalling that our electoral body carries out little or no due diligence in confirming certificates submitted by candidates. Continuous discrepancies, false declarations, and forged credentials undermine the credibility of our democracy. If we truly desire a free, fair, and credible 2027 election, the process of integrity must begin now,” he stated.

“INEC has enough time to investigate past complaints about various forms of forgery and false claims. Every incumbent and aspiring candidate must submit all academic certificates immediately for verification and public accessibility, clearly detailing schools attended from primary to university level.

“Let truth, transparency, and accountability form the foundation of leadership in our dear country. Only then can we build a Nigeria where public service is anchored on honour, not deceit. We must get it right.”