In a press conference held Thursday, former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar stated his determination to continue the legal battle concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s alleged forgery of his Chicago State University certificate.
Atiku asserted that he would only halt his pursuit once the Supreme Court delivers its verdict, emphasising that he believes in the judiciary’s final decision.
Addressing the ongoing trial, Atiku commented, “I will only drop the fight when the court rules. If the court rules that I am right, fine. If the court rules that he is right, that’s the end of the fight because at the moment, we’re at the Supreme Court, and there’s no higher court than the Supreme Court.”
Atiku also paid tribute to the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, whose efforts initiated the scrutiny of public figures’ credentials. “Now he can truly rest in peace in the assurance that what he started about 23 years ago has come to fruition,” Atiku said, commending Fawehinmi’s legacy.
Acknowledging the support received, Atiku expressed gratitude to lawyers both in Nigeria and the United States for their assistance. He also praised journalists and citizen journalists for their role in exposing the truth, highlighting the work of independent journalist Davis Hundeyin.
The controversy surrounding Tinubu’s alleged forgery has raised concerns about Nigeria’s international reputation. Atiku emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in public affairs. “Our country is bigger than any one of us, and its standing in the world affects the fate of all who come from or live in this great country,” he remarked.
Atiku urged other political leaders, including presidential candidates Peter Obi and Eabour Kwankwaso, to join him in advocating for “propriety, accountability, and justice” in government affairs. He emphasised the importance of inclusivity in governance, stating, “We are multi-ethnic and multi-religious, and our government should reflect our diversity in our composition.”
In response to Atiku’s statements, Senator Smart Adeyemi dismissed the allegations against Tinubu, citing Chicago State University’s confirmation of Tinubu’s graduation. Adeyemi suggested that pursuing criminal charges would be futile, considering the sitting president’s immunity.
As the legal battle continues, Nigeria watches closely, awaiting the Supreme Court’s ruling, which is anticipated to provide a decisive resolution to this high-profile dispute.