civil Society Organisation, United Global Resolve for Peace (UGRFP) has called on the national assembly to begin probe into the ongoing dispute between the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar and President Bola Tinubu regarding the latter’s academic records from Chicago State University.The organisation observed that the allegations against the president are grave, noting that if left unaddressed, have the potential to cast a long shadow over Nigeria’s image, both regionally and globally.
Chairman, UGRFP, Shalom Olaseni, in a statement, at the weekend, maintained that Nigeria’s reputation hinges on the nation’s collective ability to address the allegations surrounding President Tinubu’s certificate with absolute transparency and integrity.
He said: “We note with growing concerns how allegations of President Tinubu presenting a forged school certificate from Chicago State University to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has ignited a whirlwind of media attention, both locally and on the international stage.
“We are clearly alarmed by the dimensions some of these reactions have taken, and the danger of letting such a serious matter be undermined by caricature, bants and other vindictive motives that seem to rule the media space in Nigeria today. We find that it is therefore imperative that we weigh in as concerned stakeholders and approach this issue with the gravitas it deserves to safeguard the reputation and credibility of Nigeria.
“UGRFP recognizes that such allegations are grave and, if left unaddressed, have the potential to cast a long shadow over Nigeria’s image, both regionally and globally.
As Nigeria seeks to play an increasingly prominent role on the international stage, it is paramount that our leaders demonstrate the highest standards of integrity and accountability.
In this regard, we call upon President Tinubu to forthrightly present his side of the matter. The President, as a custodian of our national leadership, owes it to the Nigerian people to provide irrefutable evidence that validates the authenticity of his claimed educational qualifications. Transparency is not a mere expectation; it is an imperative for the sustenance of trust and confidence in our leadership.
“The implications of allowing this controversy to persist without resolution are extensive. They extend beyond the realm of political intrigue and into the very core of our democratic principles. By failing to address allegations of this magnitude, President Tinubu risks sending a message that integrity and accountability can be compromised with impunity, thereby undermining the very foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.
“UGRFP further implores the National Assembly, as the embodiment of Nigeria’s legislative authority, to approach this matter with the utmost seriousness. A thorough, impartial, and expeditious investigation is not only a matter of justice but a demonstration of our commitment to the rule of law and transparency.
“We likewise must caution against the incendiary and ill-motivated antics of some who seem to have found a way to settle political scores against Mr. President by amplifying matters above the reach of their understanding beyond mere sensationalism online. Decorum is profitable to direct, and circumspection is wisdom in the face of half-truths and blurry narratives.”