Presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over an ongoing legal battle in the United States concerning the release of records linked to the President from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Obi described the development as “profoundly embarrassing,” arguing that Nigerians should be able to access credible information about issues concerning their President, particularly matters of legitimate public interest.
Writing on his X page, Obi said leadership requires the courage to confront one’s past, acknowledge mistakes and provide clear explanations where questions arise.
He said issues concerning educational credentials, particularly primary and secondary schooling, should not remain unresolved or be addressed mainly through legal proceedings.
According to him, Nigerians deserve “clear, credible and verifiable explanations,” especially where information about a leader’s educational background had previously been presented to the public.
Obi also expressed concern about the example the controversy could set for young Nigerians, arguing that the Presidency should represent integrity, transparency, accountability and ethical leadership.
He maintained that having an imperfect past is part of being human, but leaders should be willing to confront difficult questions honestly, make amends where necessary and put national interest above personal ambition.
The former Anambra State governor further argued that political power is temporary, while the standards established by those occupying public office can influence future generations.
“Nigeria is greater than any one person, and the integrity of the Republic must always come before the interests of the individual,” Obi said.
The comments come amid legal proceedings in the United States over access to records concerning Tinubu held by the FBI.
The dispute has generated renewed public debate in Nigeria over transparency and the President’s past.
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