Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has given the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) the go-ahead to release his academic records for legitimate public scrutiny.
Obi said he had no objection to any lawful request for certified true copies of his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy and other documents connected with his admission and studies at the university.
The presidential candidate said the degree was awarded to him by UNN in 1984.
He also extended the same position to other institutions where he received education, urging them to provide his records when approached through proper legal channels.
His position followed reports circulating on social media about legal proceedings involving an individual or group seeking certified copies of his university records and other credentials.
Rather than oppose the request, Obi said he welcomed legitimate efforts to examine his educational background.
He maintained that public office seekers should be prepared to subject their credentials and records to reasonable scrutiny, especially when asking citizens to entrust them with the leadership of the country.
According to him, transparency should not be treated as a threat but as part of the responsibility that comes with seeking public office.
Obi, however, stressed that such scrutiny must be conducted within the law and applied fairly to all political candidates.
He therefore called on other presidential contenders to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for legitimate examination.
The former Anambra governor said greater openness among candidates could help improve public confidence and restore trust in Nigeria’s political institutions.
He added that anyone seeking to lead the country should demonstrate through conduct, rather than words alone, that there is nothing being concealed from the electorate.
Obi further argued that transparency, integrity and accountability must be reflected by political leaders if Nigerians are to build a society based on those same values.
He said he remained willing to face scrutiny of his academic background and believed candidates seeking Nigerians’ votes should equally be prepared to earn public trust through openness.