The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted an activist’s request to investigate the academic qualifications of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Justice Binta Nyako approved the ex-parte application by activist Mr. Emorioloye Owolemi, who sought a court order to verify the Minister’s Secondary School Certificate purportedly issued by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

Owolemi filed the request citing alleged discrepancies in the Minister’s academic claims and sought judicial clarification on the legitimacy of the certificate.

In a related matter, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court denied a similar request by Owolemi to investigate the Minister’s National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate.

Through his counsel, Mr. Philemon Yakubu, SAN, Owolemi had applied under the Federal High Court Civil Rules 2019 and the Freedom of Information Act 2011 to compel the NYSC to provide detailed information about the Minister’s 2006 service year.

The requested documents included monthly clearance records, posting and deployment details, financial information submitted during registration, allowance payment logs, and any internal memos or disciplinary reports regarding the Minister’s alleged absconding.

Justice Abdulmalik declined the application, noting that the activist did not demonstrate that his actions were in the public interest, as required by law.

After the ruling, Mr. Yakubu said he would consult with Owolemi to determine the next legal steps, emphasizing that the aim is to promote transparency and accountability among public office holders.

The WAEC inquiry granted by Justice Nyako marks a partial success for the activist, while the NYSC investigation remains blocked pending further legal action.

The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of public officials’ qualifications and compliance with regulatory requirements in Nigeria.