Atiku Urges Leaders to Ensure Transparency in Tinubu’s Credential Controversy
Former Nigeria’s Vice President and People’s Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has called upon Nigeria’s traditional, religious, and political leaders to actively engage in the campaign to scrutinize the credentials of President Bola Tinubu in his bid for Nigeria’s presidency.
Speaking at a press conference, Atiku emphasized the duty of leaders to prioritize the well-being of all citizens, stressing, “People look up to us to respect the rules and defend them.” He expressed concern that the certification process for a candidate’s credentials should not drag on for months or years, as Nigeria’s reputation is on the line.
“I’m a democrat by conviction and a citizen of a country that I love,” Atiku affirmed, paying tribute to the late human rights activist Gani Fawehinmi, whom he credited with inspiring his quest for truth. He also commended journalist David Hundeyin as a source of inspiration in this pursuit of transparency.
Atiku presented crucial evidence from Chicago State University (CSU) that raised questions about President Tinubu’s qualifications:
– Allegations that Bola A. Tinubu presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
-Discrepancies in the CSU certificate, notably a gender mismatch with President Tinubu.
-Claims on the CSU admission application form that President Tinubu attended Government College Lagos and graduated in 1970, a school that was established in 1974, raising perjury concerns.
-The ownership of the CSU document by a Black American, possibly conflicting with President Tinubu’s claim of non-dual citizenship on his INEC form.
-Differences in the middle name; the Chicago documents list “Adekunle,” while President Tinubu’s INEC submission states “Ahmed.”
Atiku called upon Nigerian leaders, including prominent figures like Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwanksaso , to unite in the pursuit of transparency.
He vowed to continue the legal battle until the court issues a verdict on the matter.