Opposition lawyer Kalu petitions EU over Tinubu credentials, alleges constitutional breach

By Precious Mark

A Nigerian lawyer and member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kalu Kalu, has filed a petition with the European Union Commission regarding the academic credentials of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking on Friday, after submitting the document at the European Commission, Kalu alleged that the presentation of questionable academic records to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) violates constitutional provisions governing candidate eligibility.

He specifically cited Section 137(1)(j) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, which addresses qualifications and disqualifications for presidential candidates.

“I am here at the European Commission to submit a petition to the European Union concerning the subversion of constitutional order in Nigeria where Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has suspended the constitutional order in Nigeria because of his false academic credentials where he submitted to INEC,” Kalu stated.

The opposition figure claimed that the president omitted details regarding his primary and secondary education in documents submitted to the electoral umpire.

“Section 137(1)(j) says if you have presented a false certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission, you will not be qualified to run election,” Kalu said.

He further alleged that the administration has consolidated authority to undermine statutory checks and balances within the country’s democratic framework.

“Because they have captured all the paraphernalia of power in Nigeria, he has imposed himself on Nigeria thereby subverting the provisions of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, which is a mini coup against the people of Nigeria,” he added.

Kalu explained that his appeal to the international community was intended to encourage democratic compliance and protect the rule of law in Nigeria.

“So I’m here to submit a petition to the EU to help restore constitutional democracy in Nigeria,” he concluded.

The petition has generated varied reactions across political circles, with supporters framing it as a push for transparency and institutional integrity, while critics view it as a political maneuver that cannot override the decisions of domestic courts.