The United States branch of the All Progressives Congress on Sunday night cautioned the National Democratic Coalition against holding its planned press conference regarding the controversy surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s academic certificate from Chicago State University, claiming the institution has already confirmed its legitimacy.
The warning comes two days after David Adenekan, NADECO USA’s publicity secretary, revealed that the organisation will conduct a global news conference on Monday at 9:45 a.m. inside Chicago City Hall.
Adenekan continued by saying that the goal was to provide journalists and members of the general public a chance to submit inquiries that would allow for a thorough investigation and additional illumination of the President’s allegedly forged CSU certificate.
The Chairman of APC USA, Prof. Tai Balofin, responded via a statement on Sunday night and denounced the action, calling it a smokescreen to demonise the president.
Balofin noted that NADECO USA, which he called a phoney entity, should not have been seen talking about a case that is already in court while asserting that Tinubu’s alma mater had resolved the issue.
In his words, he said:
“The allegation surrounding President Tinubu’s educational certificate from Chicago State University has been addressed, with CSU confirming the certificate’s authenticity. It is crucial to note that this matter is already in the hands of the appropriate authorities, specifically the courts, where due process and legal procedures will be followed.
“We therefore urge the supporters of Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and those of Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, to wait for the outcome of the Supreme Court ruling.
“Furthermore, we would like to clarify that the group organising this World Press Conference under the banner of NADECO USA is not the original NADECO that President Tinubu was a part of during the Abacha era. We urge the public not to be misled by these attempts to distort history. Premature and unfounded allegations not only do a disservice to the public but also risk diverting attention from pressing issues that truly deserve scrutiny.
“In conclusion, the leadership of APC USA stands firmly against any attempts to undermine the reputation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and, by extension, Nigeria. We believe in the strength of the democratic processes and the judicial system to address any legitimate concerns.
“We remain committed to democratic principles, and we encourage this group hiding under NADECO USA to engage in constructive dialogue and allow the legal system to take its course in addressing any genuine concerns.”
cc: Punch Ng
