Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish the academic certificates and other credentials submitted by all candidates seeking elective offices ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to him, making such information public would strengthen transparency in the electoral process, improve citizens’ confidence in the system, and place a greater burden on political office seekers to uphold honesty and accountability. He argued that Nigerians should not be kept in the dark about the educational qualifications and professional records of those asking for their votes.
Obi said the disclosure of candidates’ credentials would help voters make informed decisions and would also discourage the presentation of false or questionable documents during the nomination process. He maintained that public office is a serious responsibility that should be reserved for individuals whose backgrounds can withstand scrutiny.
He further criticized INEC’s routine practice of asking candidates to declare whether they have ever submitted forged certificates or been adjudged of unsound mind, describing the approach as inadequate. In his view, the electorate deserves leaders who have demonstrated competence, integrity, and sound judgment, rather than relying on self-declarations that may not be independently verified.
The former Anambra State governor also linked his demand to the country’s current challenges, saying Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, frequent kidnappings, rising hunger, and deepening economic hardship require purposeful and responsible leadership. He stressed that the nation needs leaders who are focused on solving pressing problems and rebuilding public trust, not politicians who treat governance as business as usual.
His remarks came shortly after the NDC confirmed that his name had been uploaded to INEC’s nomination portal, even as the party continues to battle legal issues surrounding its registration.
