Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to publish the academic certificates and other credentials submitted by all candidates seeking elective office.
According to Daily Post on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, Obi said greater transparency would strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process and democratic institutions.
Reflecting on questions contained in INEC’s nomination form, the former Anambra State governor highlighted sections on candidates’ mental fitness and the authenticity of their academic qualifications, arguing that the commission already places significant importance on the credibility and eligibility of aspirants.
Obi said public access to candidates’ credentials would enable Nigerians to verify their qualifications, promote accountability and reinforce trust in elections.
Questioning why such records should remain confidential, he said, “Have you ever presented a forged certificate to INEC? Again, the answer is either Yes or No. This raises another important question: Why shouldn’t INEC… publish the academic certificates and credentials submitted by every candidate seeking elective office?”
He maintained that leaders should be prepared to subject their qualifications to public scrutiny as part of efforts to uphold democratic standards.
