Opposition figures Peter Obi and Hakeem Baba-Ahmed have criticised President Bola Tinubu over the controversy surrounding efforts to prevent the release of records relating to his past by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Obi described the situation as embarrassing, arguing that public officials should be prepared to address questions about their past openly rather than seek to prevent legitimate scrutiny.
The former Anambra State governor made his position known in a statement posted on his X account, where he stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in public leadership.
According to Obi, questions surrounding a leader’s educational history and other aspects of their past should be addressed through clear and verifiable explanations.
He argued that Nigerians deserve access to credible information, particularly when the issues being discussed concern matters that have previously been presented as part of a public official’s credentials.
Obi also said leaders should be willing to acknowledge mistakes, provide explanations where necessary and accept responsibility when circumstances demand it.
He warned that the conduct of political leaders also shapes the values of younger Nigerians, particularly students, and said the nation’s highest office should demonstrate integrity and accountability.
Meanwhile, Baba-Ahmed raised questions over the simultaneous absence of President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima from Nigeria.
Speaking at the first national summit of opposition political leaders in Abuja, the national chairman of the People’s Redemption Party questioned who was responsible for running the country while both leaders were outside Nigeria.
Baba-Ahmed also alleged that Tinubu’s overseas trip was connected to the controversy surrounding the possible release of FBI documents concerning the President.
The claim, however, represents Baba-Ahmed’s interpretation of events and was not independently established in the report.
The controversy has emerged as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 presidential election, with opposition figures increasingly scrutinising Tinubu’s record and personal history.
Obi argued that political ambitions should not take precedence over the broader interests of the country.
He maintained that while an imperfect past is part of human experience, leaders should confront difficult questions with honesty and humility rather than attempt to shield them from public examination.
The latest dispute is expected to further intensify political debate ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly as opposition parties seek to present themselves as an alternative to the Tinubu administration.
