Atiku Questions Tinubu’s Academic Records, Demands Equal Standards for Public Officials

The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has renewed his criticism of President Bola Tinubu regarding alleged discrepancies in the academic certificates submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking during an engagement with the ADC Youth Wing on Wednesday, Atiku argued that public officials seeking the nation’s highest office should be held to the same rigorous standards required of ordinary job seekers.

The former Vice President pointed out reported inconsistencies in the dates, signatures, and degree descriptions on various versions of the President’s academic credentials, raising questions about accountability.

“If a young Nigerian would be required to explain such discrepancies before getting an ordinary job, why should the man seeking Nigeria’s highest job be exempt from the same standard?” Atiku asked, calling for an end to a system that applies different rules to political elites.

Beyond the certificate controversy, Atiku unveiled a youth-focused platform promising enhanced economic opportunities, educational reforms emphasizing digital skills and vocational training, and guaranteed political representation including a commitment to reserve at least 30 percent of ADC legislative candidacies for individuals under the age of 40. He urged young Nigerians to actively prepare for leadership roles and hold elected officials accountable.