TUNJI-OJO: Credentials controversy deepens, as London Metropolitan University receives FOI petition on Tinubu’s Minister

*Nigerians watch closely – Report

By OUR REPORTER

The controversy surrounding the academic records of Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has taken a significant new turn as London Metropolitan University has officially acknowledged receipt of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request seeking clarification on the Minister’s claimed qualifications.

The request was filed on November 17, 2025, by Valen Legal Practitioners on behalf of the Asiwaju Media Team leader, Prince Emorioloye Owolemi of Ondo State, and transmitted to the University’s Freedom of Information Officer. The University confirmed receiving the detailed petition the same day.

According to the letter, the legal firm is demanding verification of three major claims publicly attributed to the Minister:

1 That he gained admission into the University of North London (now London Metropolitan University) in 2002 to study B.Eng (Engineering).

2 That he graduated in 2005 with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.

3 That he obtained a Master’s degree from the same institution in 2006.

The solicitors invoked the UK Freedom of Information Act 2000, insisting that the matter falls squarely within public interest, especially given the Minister’s repeated public assertions and the political sensitivity of such claims.

They further argued that UK public institutions are obligated to release such information where it concerns verification of academic records publicly cited by a public office holder, provided no privacy exemption applies.

The letter asked London Metropolitan University to confirm whether any admission records exist for Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for the year 2002.
Whether any graduation record exists for 2005 (B.Eng).
Whether any Master’s degree was awarded to the same individual in 2006.

Any official clarification or confirmation that may authenticate or disprove the Minister’s stated academic history. Or, alternatively, a written confirmation that the University does not hold such records.

The solicitors also requested that if any part of the information is withheld, the University must issue a formal refusal notice in line with Section 17 of FOIA 2000.

The growing controversy has generated intense public debate in Nigeria, especially on social media and in political circles. Many Nigerians already familiar with past credential scandals involving political figures, are eagerly awaiting the outcome of this latest inquiry.

Civil society groups and commentators argue that the issue goes beyond individual reputation, touching on the integrity of public office and the credibility of background checks during ministerial screenings.

Under UK law, London Metropolitan University has 20 working days to respond to the FOI request. If the request is denied or partially withheld, the petitioners have signaled they will immediately seek an internal review and, if necessary, escalate the matter to the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

As the nation watches closely, this development marks the most formal and verifiable step yet in the unfolding credentials saga. With the University now formally engaged, many Nigerians expect that the coming weeks will bring definitive clarity, either confirming the Minister’s academic claims or exposing inconsistencies.

Until then, the atmosphere remains charged, and the public waits with keen interest for what could be a turning point in the ongoing scrutiny of Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo’s credentials.