Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has commended the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, following controversies surrounding discrepancies in his academic certificates.
Nnaji, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023, resigned earlier this week after a Premium Times investigation alleged that he submitted forged academic and NYSC certificates during his ministerial nomination process.
In a statement shared on his X account on Thursday, Obi described Nnaji’s decision as “a decent and honourable step,” adding that such actions reinforce accountability in public office.
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Obi stated:“It is commendable that the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, has resigned following the controversy surrounding discrepancies in his academic certificates. That is a decent and honourable step. These instances remind us that such matters are not trivial; they constitute serious criminal offences,”
The former Anambra State governor called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant agencies to begin verifying the academic and professional certificates of all political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He urged that the process should cover “all elective positions, from the presidency to local government councillors,” stressing that dishonesty and forgery should have “no place in leadership.”
Obi demanded an urgent national review:“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 criticized the electoral body, stating:“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 concluded by urging that every incumbent and aspiring candidate should make their academic documents publicly accessible, adding:“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,”
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