Human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has described the renewed controversy surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Chicago State University (CSU) academic records as boring and a major distraction from the critical issues ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Adeyanju made this known in a Facebook post on Monday, November 9, 2026, while reacting to recent allegations by former Chicago State University lecturer and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain in Lagos, Adetokunbo Pearse.
Pearse had reportedly alleged during an interview with News Central that President Tinubu never attended Chicago State University, claiming that he was familiar with the academic programme the President allegedly attended.
However, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, had last Tuesday defended Tinubu’s academic records, describing the controversy as unnecessary. He also stated that he had lived in Chicago for nearly 30 years and had met several individuals who studied alongside the President.
Chicago State University, in October 2023, confirmed that Tinubu attended and graduated from the institution in 1979. The university’s registrar, Caleb Westberg, also reaffirmed the position under oath.
Reacting to the renewed debate, Adeyanju argued that the controversy surrounding Tinubu’s academic qualifications resurfaces during election cycles and urged opposition parties to redirect their attention towards electoral transparency and the protection of votes.
He stated:
“Interestingly, Chicago State University already said Tinubu graduated from there. This narrative every election has become boring and a huge distraction from the real issues. Opposition should focus on how to stop the rigging of the election.”
Adeyanju’s comments have added another dimension to the ongoing public debate over the President’s academic records as political parties and stakeholders begin preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
