The counsel representing the Peoples Democracy Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in his pursuit to clarify the educational qualifications of President Bola Tinubu, has expressed disappointment over Tinubu’s vigorous opposition to disclosing his academic records from Chicago State University (CSU).
Atiku’s lawyer, Liu Angela, sent an email to Tinubu’s legal team requesting cooperation in seeking information from CSU about documents already in the public domain and submitted in Nigerian court proceedings. The email, dated August 3, 2023, aims to clarify discrepancies and authenticity of documents.
Angela expressed surprise at Tinubu’s refusal to provide access to his school records, highlighting that such transparency would clear any inconsistencies. She emphasized that Tinubu’s opposition to the discovery process has raised suspicions and suggests a potential effort to conceal information.
Angela further noted that Tinubu’s delay tactics and opposition to the judicial process are contributing to suspicions. She revealed that Atiku’s legal team had offered not to oppose Tinubu’s request to join the case, yet Tinubu pursued separate action without coordination.
Atiku’s legal team views Tinubu’s opposition as an opportunity to demonstrate that the academic records from CSU may support Atiku’s case against Tinubu at the presidential election petitions tribunal. The aim is to prove that Tinubu may have falsified his credentials and should be disqualified.
The ongoing legal dispute underscores the significance of transparency and accountability in political leadership and electoral processes. The willingness of Atiku’s legal team to cooperate contrasts with Tinubu’s opposition, which continues to generate intrigue and speculation around the issue.
