Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar pledged to pursue the case surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s educational qualifications to the Supreme Court, emphasizing the need for “legitimate governance” grounded in truth, morality, and accountability.
Speaking in Abuja, Atiku encouraged other political figures, including Labour Party’s Peter Obi and New Nigerian Peoples Party’s Rabiu Kwankwaso, to join his campaign for upholding justice, morality, and accountability in governance. He recounted refusing entry to a delegation of governors claiming to represent the president after the 2023 elections, affirming that only a court’s ruling would end his pursuit.
Recently, based on a U.S. court order, Chicago State University (CSU) provided Atiku with details of President Tinubu’s educational background. Armed with this information, Atiku’s legal team is preparing to challenge the election results.
Atiku highlighted the importance of elections being grounded in the constitution. “It should not take months, or indeed decades, for relevant institutions to verify the authenticity of candidates’ certificates,” he stated. Atiku thanked legal experts in both Nigeria and the U.S. for their assistance and expressed gratitude to Nigerian youths and citizen journalists for their commitment to truth and accountability.
Addressing past political differences with Tinubu, Atiku refuted claims of betrayal, recounting how he supported Tinubu during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure.
Kalu Kalu, Atiku’s attorney, revealed discrepancies between the CSU documents and those Tinubu provided to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), such as discrepancies in names and educational history.
Sun News reported that APC dismissed Atiku’s claims, labeling them as desperate attempts to tarnish President Tinubu’s reputation. Peter Obi, LP candidate, expressed openness to collaborate on fostering justice in the nation.
NADECO called for President Tinubu’s resignation in light of the CSU certificate controversy, emphasizing the importance of integrity in leadership roles, especially as president.