2027:Poll: Publish Aspirants’ Certificates, Obi Tells INEC

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC )  Peter Obi, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish the academic certificates and other credentials submitted by candidates seeking elective offices in the country.

Obi said making such documents publicly accessible would promote transparency, strengthen accountability, and boost public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general election.

The former governor of Anambra State made the call on Tuesday after completing his nomination forms, noting that one of the questions contained in the documents specifically asked whether an aspirant had ever presented a forged certificate to the electoral body.

According to him, Nigerians deserve to know the qualifications and credentials of individuals seeking to lead them.

He said, “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?”

Obi maintained that openness in the verification process would deepen democracy and help rebuild citizens’ trust in public institutions.

He stressed that transparency remains a fundamental requirement for credible elections and accountable leadership, especially at a time when Nigerians are demanding higher ethical standards from political office holders.

The NDC presidential candidate also drew attention to another question in the nomination form, which asks whether a candidate had ever been adjudged a lunatic or declared to be of unsound mind.

He said the question should compel political leaders to reflect on their priorities and conduct in the face of the country’s mounting challenges.

Obi queried whether those entrusted with leadership today could genuinely claim to be acting with sound judgment while insecurity, poverty, hunger, and unemployment continue to worsen across the country.

He lamented that many citizens still cannot travel safely on major highways due to kidnapping and other violent crimes, insisting that national attention should be focused on addressing these urgent issues rather than engaging in politics as usual.

According to him, responsible leadership requires treating insecurity, economic hardship, and social welfare as national emergencies deserving immediate and coordinated action.

Obi added that strengthening transparency in the electoral process, beginning with public access to candidates’ credentials, would contribute significantly to restoring confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

“Transparency strengthens democracy and builds public trust. Nigeria’s problems are too serious for politics as usual,” he stated.