Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has advocated for increased openness in Nigeria’s electoral process, calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to make public the academic qualifications submitted by candidates seeking public office.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued on Tuesday, Obi reflected on several questions contained in the nomination forms completed by election contestants, arguing that some of the declarations required by INEC highlight the need for greater transparency and accountability among political office seekers.
The former Anambra State Governor pointed specifically to a section asking candidates whether they had ever submitted forged academic credentials to the electoral commission.
“Further in the same Section E, Question 6, was:
‘Have you ever presented a forged certificate to INEC?’ Again, the answer is either Yes or No,” Obi said.
“This raises another important question: Why shouldn’t INEC, in the interest of ensuring that our leaders are exemplary in following the rules and to strengthen public confidence in our electoral process, publish the academic certificates and credentials submitted by every candidate seeking elective office?”
According to him, public access to such records would help reinforce trust in elections and provide voters with greater confidence in those seeking leadership positions.
“Transparency strengthens democracy and builds public trust,” he said.
Obi also linked the discussion to broader concerns about the quality of leadership in the country, citing another question on the nomination form that asks candidates whether they have ever been declared mentally unfit.
“Can we, as the political leaders of today’s Nigeria, truly say we are exhibiting the characteristics of a sound mind?” Obi asked.
The NDC flag bearer argued that the country’s worsening security situation and economic difficulties should command the full attention of public officials rather than political maneuvering.
“When Nigerians, including children and security personnel, are being abducted into the bushes, citizens cannot travel safely on our highways, several million Nigerians are uncertain where their next meal will come from, and several billions are being siphoned frivolously through non-existent agencies and projects, should politics really be our primary preoccupation?” Obi said.
He maintained that the nation’s challenges require urgent intervention and a coordinated response from all relevant stakeholders.
“A sound-minded leadership would have declared these existential challenges a national emergency and immediately mobilised all relevant institutions, security agencies, experts, community leaders, and other critical stakeholders to confront them with urgency and resolve,” Obi said.
“At a moment like this, the survival, security, and stability of Nigeria must take precedence over every other consideration. This is a time for decisive action, not political calculation or the pursuit of partisan advantage.”
Obi further urged political leaders to prioritise competence, integrity and public service, stressing that addressing Nigeria’s pressing problems demands a shift away from routine political interests and a stronger focus on citizens’ welfare.
