Constitutional Controversy: Nigerians Debate Tinubu’s Eligibility for Presidency Amid Certificate Saga
In a nation gripped by political turmoil and uncertainty, the eligibility of Bola Tinubu to hold the presidency of Nigeria has become a hotly debated topic. The crux of the matter lies in Section 146 of the Nigerian constitution, which stipulates that the Vice-President shall assume the presidency in case of a vacancy due to death, resignation, or impeachment of the incumbent president. This provision has raised questions about Vice President Kashim Shettima potentially taking over if President Tinubu resigns amidst the controversies surrounding his academic records.
Critics of President Tinubu have been clamoring for his election to be disqualified, citing concerns about his academic qualifications. One concerned Nigerian, @Panache, boldly stated, “I have been saying that Tinubu should be disqualified; he did not win the 2023 presidential elections, and with all the evidence, he’s not even fit to be on the ballot.”
The ongoing battle to oust President Tinubu gained momentum when Chicago State University testified under oath that Tinubu had presented a forged degree certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the presidential election. According to reports from the Peoples Gazette, school officials in Chicago categorically repudiated Tinubu’s certificate, which was dated June 22, 1979, and submitted to INEC on June 17, 2022, stating that it was not issued by the university.
These developments have ignited a firestorm of controversy in Nigeria’s political landscape. The constitutional mandate that Vice President Kashim Shettima could assume the presidency if President Tinubu resigns has stirred passionate discussions among Nigerians. While some argue for Tinubu’s resignation, others are pushing for his disqualification from office based on the allegations of fraudulent academic credentials.
The nation watches with bated breath as this constitutional conundrum unfolds. As the debate rages on, Nigeria finds itself at a critical crossroads, with its political future hanging in the balance.
