By Julius Peter, Abuja
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has come to the defence of former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, over questions surrounding his academic credentials.
The party dismissed three suits reportedly instituted by a Labour Party chieftain, Abayomi Arabambi, challenging aspects of Obi’s educational background and credentials.
The NDC described the legal actions as unnecessary and politically motivated, arguing that Obi’s academic records had been subjected to public scrutiny and that there was no basis for attempts to discredit him.
According to the party, the allegations against Obi should be treated within the context of Nigeria’s democratic and political environment, particularly as political actors position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The NDC maintained that Obi’s educational history and qualifications are matters capable of verification through the relevant institutions and official records, rather than issues to be settled through political claims or public accusations.
The party also criticised Arabambi, a prominent figure within the Labour Party, for what it described as repeated attempts to cast doubt on Obi’s credibility.
It argued that political disagreements should not be allowed to degenerate into campaigns aimed at damaging the reputation of individuals, stressing that anyone making allegations should be prepared to substantiate them with credible evidence.
The controversy over Obi’s credentials comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition parties and political groups increasingly scrutinising the backgrounds, records and qualifications of prospective presidential contenders.
Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the Labour Party, emerged as a major political figure following the poll and has remained influential within the wider opposition movement.
The NDC said the former Anambra governor’s academic credentials could be verified independently and challenged those questioning them to rely on documentary evidence and established legal procedures.
It further accused some political actors of attempting to exploit controversies around personal records for political advantage rather than engaging in substantive discussions about governance, economic development and national policy.
The party urged Nigerians to distinguish between legitimate scrutiny of public officials and what it described as politically driven attacks.
It said political leaders and aspirants should be assessed primarily on their records, competence, policies and capacity to address the country’s challenges.
The NDC also called on the public to await the outcome of the legal process rather than relying on claims circulating in political circles and on social media.
The party’s position adds another dimension to the growing debate over Obi’s political future and the wider realignment of opposition forces ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
While the suits have generated controversy among political stakeholders, the NDC insisted that the former governor’s credentials remain verifiable and that attempts to question them must be backed by credible evidence.
The development is expected to further fuel political debate within opposition circles, particularly as parties and politicians seek to consolidate support and define their positions ahead of the next general elections.
