Onoh Defends Tinubu’s INEC Nomination Documents, Dismisses Certificate Controversy

Onoh Defends Tinubu’s INEC Nomination Documents, Dismisses Certificate Controversy Former South-East spokesman for President Bola Tinubu, Denge Josef Onoh, has defended the President’s nomination documents submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, describing criticisms surrounding his educational records as politically motivated and based on a misunderstanding of legal requirements. Onoh argued that President Tinubu’s documents comply with constitutional provisions and electoral requirements, insisting that the ongoing debate over the details contained in the INEC forms does not invalidate the President’s eligibility to contest an election. He dismissed the criticisms as “political mischief and legal illiteracy,” saying opponents were focusing on issues that, in his view, do not constitute constitutional grounds for disqualification. The controversy followed public discussions over details contained in Tinubu’s INEC nomination documents, including questions about the educational qualifications section of the forms. Reports on the published documents indicated that Tinubu listed a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Chicago State University, while some sections relating to earlier schooling were left blank. Onoh maintained that the relevant constitutional provisions require candidates to meet specified qualifications and that the submitted documents satisfy those conditions. He urged critics to focus on legal interpretations rather than political arguments. The debate over presidential nomination documents has continued to attract public attention, with advocacy groups and political actors seeking clarification on different aspects of candidates’ submissions to INEC.

Onoh’s comments come as political discussions intensify ahead of future electoral activities, with supporters and opponents of the President continuing to debate issues surrounding his candidacy and public records.