A civil society organisation, the Center for Reform and Public Advocacy (CFRPA), has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to provide clarification on the academic qualifications submitted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2023 general election, amid renewed controversy over his eligibility for the 2027 presidential race.
In a formal letter dated June 19, 2026, and addressed to the INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, the group urged the commission to urgently review and clarify the authenticity of certificates allegedly submitted by President Tinubu during his nomination process.
CFRPA, a pro-democracy and anti-corruption advocacy group, argued that INEC must act to prevent individuals with “questionable academic backgrounds” from participating in future elections, particularly the 2027 general election.
The group further claimed that inconsistencies exist in the academic records presented by President Tinubu, including alleged discrepancies involving Government College Lagos and documents linked to Chicago State University. It also raised concerns about his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate.
According to CFRPA’s Head of Legal Unit, Barrister Kalu Agu, the alleged inconsistencies raise constitutional questions under Sections 137(1)(j) and 285(14) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which relate to eligibility and electoral conduct.
The group also referenced a 2023 U.S. court discovery process in a case involving Atiku Abubakar, which ordered Chicago State University to release academic records related to Tinubu. It claimed that parts of those records allegedly revealed discrepancies in admission details and academic history.
CFRPA warned that failure by INEC to publicly clarify its position on the matter may lead to legal action aimed at compelling the commission to act, including efforts to stop the acceptance of Tinubu’s nomination should he contest in 2027.
The organisation insisted that its demand is driven by public interest and the need to safeguard electoral integrity, urging INEC to demonstrate neutrality and uphold constitutional provisions in the handling of future elections.
INEC has not yet issued an official response to the allegations at the time of filing this report.
