Forgery Allegation: Dispute Over Tinubu’s Certificate Sparks Heated Exchange

In a recent development, the Presidency has vehemently denied allegations that President Bola Tinubu submitted a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for his 2023 presidential candidacy. The certificate in question was allegedly issued by Chicago State University (CSU).

Temitope Ajayi, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, issued a statement refuting claims of forgery. He asserted that CSU had not declared Tinubu’s certificate fake in its deposition. According to Ajayi, the university, under oath, confirmed that Tinubu attended and graduated from CSU, clarifying that the university does not handle replacements for lost certificates.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, aligned with the Presidency, dismissing the controversy as a distraction from more critical national issues. He stressed that similar doubts were raised about former President Muhammadu Buhari’s academic qualifications, which proved unfounded. Tuggar noted that international engagements involving President Tinubu had not shown interest in this saga.

In response, Paul Ibe, Special Adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, criticized Tuggar’s statement as “irresponsible and shameful.” Ibe asserted that the depositions from CSU indicated that Tinubu had forged the documents. Whether Atiku’s legal team would pursue this angle with the Supreme Court remained uncertain.

The Labour Party also weighed in on the matter, expressing concern that the controversy surrounding Tinubu’s academic records was tarnishing Nigeria’s image on the international stage. They emphasized the need for a final verdict from the Supreme Court before taking a stance.

The unfolding saga continues to captivate the nation, with the nation awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision on this issue, which could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s political landscape and international standing.