Obi emphasized in a statement published on X yesterday that honesty, openness, and integrity in the process of choosing the country’s leaders are essential to the legitimacy of Nigeria’s democracy.
In the midst of controversy regarding inconsistencies in his academic credentials, he also praised Uche Nnaji’s resignation as Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology.

The previous governor of Anambra State called the former minister’s action “a decent and honorable step.”

Additionally, he reminded that during President Muhammadu Buhari’s government, former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun resigned under like circumstances.

“These incidents serve as a reminder that these issues are not insignificant; rather, they are grave criminal offenses,” Obi stated.

In order to maintain integrity in the general elections of 2027, he encouraged INEC to start confirming the certificates that all political candidates from the president to local government council members submitted right away.

“It is disgusting that our electoral body does not do enough research to verify the certifications that candidates have submitted. The integrity of our democracy is weakened by persistent inconsistencies, fraudulent statements, and falsified credentials,” he said.

He asserted that the integrity process must start immediately if Nigeria is to have a free, fair, and credible 2027 election.

“INEC has ample time to look into previous complaints regarding different types of forgeries and fraudulent statements. For verification and public availability, all current and prospective candidates must promptly provide their academic credentials, which must include a detailed list of all the institutions they attended from elementary school through university.

“Let leadership in our beloved nation be built on the principles of truth, accountability, and transparency. Only then can we create a Nigeria where integrity, not dishonesty, is the foundation of public service. We have to do it correctly.