Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has asked the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), to release his academic records following reports of a legal action seeking certified copies of his university certificates and other admission documents.
Obi made the request in a statement on Tuesday, saying he had no objection to the release of his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, which he said was awarded by the university in 1984.
The former Anambra State governor also said UNN could make available other official documents relating to his admission and studies, provided such disclosure is made through legitimate channels and in accordance with the law.
I wish to state clearly that I have absolutely no objection to the release of these records,” Obi said.
Reacting to reports circulating on social media about the legal action, Obi specifically called on the University of Nigeria to make his academic documents available upon a legitimate request.
I respectfully request that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, within the limits permitted by law, make available, upon legitimate request, my academic certificates, records, and other official documents relating to my admission and studies at the University,” he said.
Obi added that he had no objection to other institutions he attended, both in Nigeria and abroad, releasing his academic records in line with applicable laws and procedures
The NDC presidential candidate said he supports transparency and accountability, particularly among individuals seeking public office.
However, he stressed that the scrutiny of candidates should be conducted fairly, consistently and within the boundaries of the law.
I believe strongly in transparency and accountability, particularly for those who seek the privilege of public office. Public scrutiny must, however, be fair, lawful, and applied consistently to everyone who seeks to lead our nation, he said.
Obi said he welcomed legitimate public interest in his background, qualifications and record as he prepares for the 2027 presidential election.
As a presidential candidate seeking the trust of Nigerians to lead our country, I welcome legitimate public interest in my background, qualifications, and record,” he said.
He added that he was prepared to face the level of scrutiny reasonably expected of anyone seeking the country’s highest political office.
Obi also called on other presidential aspirants to make their educational qualifications and relevant academic records available for legitimate public scrutiny.
“I encourage every presidential candidate to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate public scrutiny,” he said.
According to him, such transparency should not be regarded as an attack or inconvenience but as an opportunity to strengthen public confidence in political leadership.
“Doing so should not be regarded as an inconvenience or an attack. Rather, it is an opportunity to strengthen public confidence, promote accountability, and rebuild the trust of Nigerians in those who seek to govern them,” Obi said.
The development comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with presidential contenders increasingly facing scrutiny over their backgrounds and qualifications.
Obi said leadership should reflect the values expected in the society Nigerians want to build, including transparency, integrity, accountability and respect for institutions.
“I therefore welcome the scrutiny of my academic background and remain committed to the principle that those who ask Nigerians for their trust must also be willing to earn that trust through openness and accountability,” he said.
The latest statement places Peter Obi’s academic records at the centre of a growing public discussion as the former Anambra governor prepares for the 2027 presidential contest.
