ADC Accuses Akpabio of Encouraging Certificate Forgery, Says It Reflects APC Legacy

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio over comments it claims appeared to justify certificate forgery, warning that such a stance could become the lasting legacy of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued by the party’s national publicity leadership, the ADC accused the Senate President of trivialising a serious criminal offence by allegedly making remarks that appeared to defend or excuse individuals accused of presenting forged academic credentials.

The opposition party said the comments were troubling, especially coming from the head of the National Assembly, adding that public officials should instead uphold integrity and accountability in public service.

According to the ADC, certificate forgery undermines merit, damages public institutions, and discourages honest citizens who have worked hard to obtain legitimate qualifications.

“The suggestion that certificate forgery can be defended or rationalised sends a dangerous message to young Nigerians,” the party said, adding that such attitudes weaken public trust in governance and leadership.

The party further argued that normalising academic fraud reflects poorly on the ruling party and could define its political legacy if not strongly condemned.

ADC also called on political leaders to promote transparency and ethical conduct in public office, stressing that the fight against corruption must include zero tolerance for falsification of educational credentials.

The criticism follows ongoing public debate surrounding academic certificate controversies in Nigerian politics, which have periodically generated legal battles and political disputes.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Senate President nor the APC had issued an official response to the ADC’s statement.