The Federal High Court in Abuja has approved a request to investigate the academic qualifications of Nigeria’s Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Justice Binta Nyako granted the permission following an ex-parte application filed by activist Emorioloye Owolemi. The court ruling allows an inquiry into the minister’s Secondary School Certificate reportedly issued by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

The activist had argued that there were discrepancies in the minister’s academic records, prompting him to seek legal backing to obtain clarification. By granting the request, the court has opened the door for further scrutiny of the minister’s educational background under the Freedom of Information Act.

In a related development, another judge of the same court, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, declined a similar request concerning the minister’s National Youth Service Corps discharge certificate. The activist had sought an order compelling the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to release documents linked to Tunji-Ojo’s service year, including clearance and payment records.

Justice Abdulmalik ruled that the application did not sufficiently demonstrate that it was made in the public interest, as required by law. Following the decision, the activist’s counsel stated that they would consult on the next steps, emphasizing that the objective remains to promote transparency and accountability among public office holders.