Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Mr. Peter Obi, has called for the immediate prosecution of any government official found guilty of certificate forgery, following recent revelations surrounding a serving minister’s academic credentials.
In a statement released via his official social media platforms, Obi condemned the alleged fraud as a betrayal of public trust and a stain on Nigeria’s global reputation. He urged the relevant authorities to act decisively, stating that “those who forge certificates to occupy public office must be held accountable, regardless of their position or political affiliation.”
Obi emphasized that the credibility of Nigeria’s leadership depends on transparency and merit, not manipulation or deceit. He warned that tolerating such misconduct undermines the rule of law and discourages honest citizens from participating in public service.
“We cannot build a new Nigeria on a foundation of lies,” Obi said. “If we want to restore dignity to our institutions, we must prosecute those who falsify their qualifications and mislead the public.”
The certificate scandal has sparked widespread outrage, with civil society groups and legal experts demanding thorough investigations and legal consequences. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) are reportedly reviewing the case.