Fresh Controversy as Group Petitions INEC Over Tinubu’s Credentials, Seeks Clarification Ahead of 2027 Election

A civil society organisation, the Centre for Reform and Public Advocacy (CFRPA), has reignited the controversy surrounding the academic credentials of President Bola Tinubu by formally petitioning the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for clarification on the status of the certificate he submitted for the 2023 presidential election.

The advocacy group, which says it is committed to promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria, has called on INEC to publicly address questions surrounding the President’s academic records ahead of preparations for the 2027 general election.

In a letter dated June 19, 2026, and addressed to INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, the organisation argued that the electoral commission has a responsibility to ensure that only qualified candidates are allowed to contest elections in the country.

The letter, signed by the group’s Head of Legal Unit, Barrister Kalu Agu, was reportedly received at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja on the same day.

Group Raises Concerns Over Educational Records

In its petition, the CFRPA questioned the authenticity of certain academic records linked to President Tinubu, including documents allegedly submitted to support his qualification for the 2023 presidential election.

The group referenced previous legal proceedings in the United States involving academic records from Chicago State University, arguing that issues arising from those records require further clarification from Nigeria’s electoral body.

Among its claims, the organisation alleged discrepancies relating to information concerning educational institutions reportedly attended by Tinubu before his university education.

The group specifically questioned records indicating attendance at Government College Lagos during a period that, according to its submission, predates the establishment of the institution.

Based on these allegations, the advocacy group urged INEC to clarify the legal implications of any potential discrepancies and explain how such issues could affect future electoral eligibility under relevant provisions of the Nigerian Constitution.

Call for Transparency Ahead of 2027 Elections

According to the organisation, addressing the matter is necessary to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process and prevent uncertainty ahead of the next presidential election.

The group argued that electoral integrity requires transparency regarding the qualifications of individuals seeking public office, especially candidates for the country’s highest political position.

It also cited constitutional provisions relating to candidate qualification and disqualification, insisting that INEC should provide an official position on the matter.

Threat of Legal Action

The CFRPA warned that it may pursue legal action if the commission fails to respond to its request.

According to the group, such action would seek judicial interpretation of INEC’s powers and responsibilities regarding the verification of candidates’ qualifications and the acceptance of nomination documents for future elections.

The organisation maintained that its intervention was aimed at protecting democratic principles and ensuring compliance with constitutional requirements governing electoral contests in Nigeria.

As of the time of filing this report, neither INEC nor the Presidency had issued an official response to the petition. The allegations contained in the letter remain claims by the advocacy group and have not been independently verified by the electoral commission or any court ruling on the matter.