A fresh storm is brewing in Nigeria’s political space — this time around the NYSC certificate of Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
A civic group, the Nigeria Integrity Movement (NIM), is urging President Bola Tinubu to order a transparent investigation into the allegations. The group says the move will show that his government truly stands for accountability and integrity.
The controversy began after a media report questioned the authenticity of Tunji-Ojo’s NYSC certificate. The report pointed out inconsistencies in the timeline of his service and when the certificate was issued.
In response, the NYSC said the minister was first mobilized for service in 2006 but did not complete it. He was later remobilized in 2019 and finally received his certificate in 2023 after what they called an “administrative omission.”
However, not everyone is satisfied with that explanation. NIM’s convener, Davies Ijele, said the NYSC’s response raised more questions than answers. He asked how someone could be remobilized years later while already serving in public office.
“The corps described the certificate as genuine, but the explanation left many Nigerians seeking more clarity,” Ijele said.
NIM insists that the truth must come out, no matter how uncomfortable it may be. “Regardless of a minister’s performance, the rule of law must take precedence,” Ijele added. The group wants the president to direct agencies like the DSS and EFCC to investigate both the minister’s documents and the NYSC’s administrative process.
They say their goal is not to smear Tunji-Ojo but to ensure accountability. Ijele also warned that ignoring the issue could hurt the government’s image and hand the opposition an easy talking point.
Meanwhile, the APC in Rivers State dismissed the controversy as a “smear campaign.” Party spokesperson Darlington Nwauju said the allegations were recycled and meant to distract from Tunji-Ojo’s achievements, including digitizing passport applications and improving immigration services.
“The attacks are dead on arrival,” Nwauju said confidently.
Still, perception matters in politics. Whether the allegations are true or not, the way the Tinubu administration handles them will shape public trust in its promise of renewal and transparency.
This issue is bigger than one certificate — it’s a test of leadership. Allowing a full and open investigation would show Nigerians that no one is above the law.
If Tunji-Ojo is cleared, it will strengthen the government’s credibility. If the investigation reveals flaws, acting quickly will protect its integrity. Either way, Nigerians deserve to know the truth.
As Ijele concluded, “Decisive, transparent action will reassure Nigerians and strengthen confidence in the administration’s commitment to accountability.”
Now, all eyes are on President Tinubu. Will he act or stay silent? The nation waits for an answer.
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