The Presidential Election Petitions Court (PEC) has admitted as exhibits the Chicago State University credentials of President Bola Tinubu, a major victory for the president. The documents were admitted despite objections against their admissibility by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its presidential candidate, Abubakar Atiku.
The PDP and Atiku had challenged Tinubu’s victory in the February 25 presidential poll, alleging that he failed to disclose details of his academic qualifications in Form EC9. They also alleged that the president distorted his age and has conflicting academic and personal records.
In his defence, Tinubu presented his Chicago State University degree certificate, NYSC discharge certificate, and Mobil Nigeria Oil Plc certificate of service. He also tendered a letter from the Chicago State University stating that he graduated from the school with honors.
The PDP and Atiku objected to the admissibility of the documents, arguing that they were photocopies and not originals. They also argued that the documents were not certified by the appropriate authorities.
However, the PEC ruled that the documents were admissible, noting that they were certified by a public notary and that there was no evidence to suggest that they were forged.
The admission of Tinubu’s academic credentials is a major setback for the PDP and Atiku, and it makes it more difficult for them to overturn his election victory.
The PDP and Atiku have vowed to appeal the PEC’s ruling. They have also said that they will continue to challenge Tinubu’s victory in court.
The case is expected to drag on for several months, and it is unclear when a final ruling will be made. However, the admission of Tinubu’s academic credentials is a major victory for the president and a setback for his opponents.
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