Fresh controversy has erupted online over the academic and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) records of Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, as Nigerians call for a transparent investigation amid renewed scrutiny.
The debate reignited after a supporter of the minister, Omolere Festus Dayo, circulated a detailed post titled “Facts Over Falsehood: Setting the Record Straight on Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo Academic and NYSC Records”. The post sought to counter what Dayo described as “deliberate misinformation” about the minister’s educational background and service in the NYSC.
In his defense, Dayo insisted that Tunji-Ojo’s academic credentials are “verifiable and authentic,” noting that the minister began his tertiary education at Obafemi Awolowo University in 1999 before transferring to the University of North London, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication.
Following the 2002 merger that formed London Metropolitan University, Dayo said the degree was formally issued under the new institution.
He further claimed that Tunji-Ojo obtained a Master’s degree in Digital Communication and Networking in 2006.
On the NYSC, Dayo said the minister was initially mobilized in 2006 but was remobilized in 2019 after failing to complete service due to personal reasons. The certificate, according to him, was formally issued on February 28, 2023.
Dayo described allegations of forgery or misconduct as “mischievous” and urged journalists to ensure accuracy in reporting.
Despite the defense, several Nigerians pushed back, insisting that the minister submit to an independent probe. Comrade Smith Smith dismissed the defense as “not genuine,” stressing that “performance in office should not be used to overshadow allegations. Let the man in question just submit himself to undiluted investigation.”
Civic accountability group Integrity Watch Nigeria also raised questions about inconsistencies in Tunji-Ojo’s educational timeline and NYSC records, citing conflicts between his admission dates, political engagements, and the issuance of his NYSC certificate.
Their concerns were echoed by Hon. Osanyinlusi Ayokunle Idowu, who suggested that the minister’s associates had struggled to reconcile conflicting narratives.
The debate has drawn wide participation online, with some supporters urging critics to verify records abroad, while others insisted that public accountability requires transparency from Tunji-Ojo himself.
Comrade Smith Smith argued, “Too busy to clear the air on this weighty allegation? Nawa for you,” while Idowu Oluwole questioned whether the minister held public office or received salaries during periods when his NYSC status was allegedly unresolved.
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