Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has refused to provide copies of his academic records, despite previously leading a legal battle to obtain President Bola Tinubu’s records. Atiku had successfully compelled Chicago State University (CSU) in the United States to release Tinubu’s academic records in October 2023, which he claimed were forged. He argued that this transparency was necessary to ensure ethical standards in Nigerian public service....Click Here To Continue Reading>>
Premium Times Newspaper submitted a formal request to Atiku on October 3, 2023, requesting copies of his academic certificates from primary school to university level, including his Master’s degree certificate. However, Atiku has yet to provide the requested information, despite acknowledging both letters and promises of a prompt response from his spokesperson, Mr. Paul Ibe.
Premium Times commended Atiku’s pursuit of Tinubu’s records and argued that “transparency and honesty” are crucial for public officials. They further suggested that by providing his own records, Atiku could demonstrate his commitment to these same principles.
While Atiku’s early life and education are partially documented, gaps remain, and controversy has surrounded his academic records, particularly the West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate issued to “Siddiq Abubakar.” Atiku’s refusal to provide his complete academic records contrasts sharply with his prior demands for transparency from President Tinubu.
Atiku had accused his rival in the 2023 presidential election, Mr Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), of forgery of a certificate from CSU. Atiku had questioned the copy of the Chicago State University (CSU) certificate Mr Tinubu presented to INEC as evidence of his educational qualification to run for the highest political office in Nigeria. However, the Supreme Court of Nigeria, in its judgement on 26 October, entirely dismissed Atiku’s appeal, refusing to admit the documents from the US in evidence on the grounds that Atiku did not plead the allegation of forgery in his petition to the election tribunal.