An interest group, named 107 All Progressives Congress (APC) Non-serving Senators Group, has urged Nigerians to allow the legal process to run its course over the unfolding legal dispute surrounding the academic records of President Bola Tinubu.
Former vice president and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 polls, Atiku Abubakar, has submitted, as fresh evidence in his appeal before the Supreme Court, the recently released academic records of Tinubu by the Chicago State University.
Atiku, alongside his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi, is challenging the February presidential election of Tinubu.
Reacting to the uproar generated by the release of the record and the ensuing legal tussle, convener and chairman Pro tem of the group, Senator Basheer Lado, said, “We are aware of the current unfounded allegations surrounding President Tinubu’s credentials,which have sparked public discourse and in some cases, public outrage.
“We believe it is essential to emphasize the need for caution and a commitment to the rule of law during this period.”
The statement added that allegations being fueled by the opposition are a matter before the court of law, and “we trust in the judicial process to address these claims fairly and impartially.”
They said it is not uncommon for world leaders or prominent figures to face allegations during their careers and come out of them with their integrity intact.
They cited the case of former United State President Barack Obama over the allegations on his place of birth and citizenship; and former Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, who faced allegations related to his educational qualifications.
“These examples from around the world illustrate that challenges and allegations are not uncommon in the lives of leaders, particularly during moments of responsibility. They also demonstrate the power of truth, the strength of character, and the resilience of leadership. We believe President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will do the same.
“We,therefore, call upon the public to exercise patience and allow the legal process to run its course. Let us refrain from making hasty judgments and spreading negative comments on social media, which can be detrimental to the functioning of our government and the unity of our nation, ” the group said.
They however added that they believe in Tinubu’s leadership, dedication to the nation’s progress, and his unwavering determination to overcome any challenges that may arise.
