The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has reacted to recent legal proceedings involving the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, following court decisions related to inquiries into his academic credentials.

The group’s response comes amid public discussion linked to speculation about a possible governorship race in Ondo State, although the minister has not made any formal declaration regarding such plans.

According to reports, the Federal High Court in Abuja granted an application permitting inquiry into the minister’s WAEC certificate, while declining a separate request concerning his NYSC discharge. HURIWA noted that the rulings have generated public interest in the verification processes of official credentials.

In a statement issued in Abuja by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the association emphasised that credentials used for university admission and national service typically undergo institutional verification by bodies such as the West African Examinations Council and the National Youth Service Corps.

HURIWA observed that Justice Binta Nyako granted leave for inquiry into the secondary school certificate, while Justice Joyce Abdulmalik declined the broader NYSC-related request, citing insufficient demonstration of public interest.

The organisation called for public discourse on the matter to remain factual and measured, stressing the importance of respecting due process and institutional procedures in the verification of academic and service records.

HURIWA also encouraged stakeholders to focus on policy discussions and governance issues, noting that public debate is strengthened when it centres on verifiable information and matters of public interest.

The group concluded that lawful scrutiny of public officials is a legitimate aspect of democratic accountability, provided such actions are grounded in evidence, follow due process, and serve the public interest.