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| Combo of Bayo Onanuga and Salisu Buhari |
Salisu Buhari: From Speaker of the House to Certificate Forgery Convict
Salisu Buhari was a businessman before he entered politics in Nigeria. In 1999, he was appointed the Speaker of the House of Representatives, which is the fourth-highest office in Nigeria's political hierarchy. However, his tenure in office was short-lived, lasting only six weeks before allegations of certificate forgery surfaced.
The allegations were first reported by TheNews magazine in February 1999. The magazine's investigation revealed that Buhari had falsified his age and educational qualifications. He claimed to have been born in 1963 and to have graduated from the University of Toronto. However, TheNews found that he was actually born in 1970 and that he never graduated from the university, nor did he attend it.
These revelations were significant because Nigeria's constitution disqualified anyone below the age of 30 from running for election to the House. Moreover, Buhari's position as Speaker of the House required him to meet certain educational qualifications.
When confronted with the allegations, Buhari denied them and threatened to sue TheNews for libel. However, the magazine wrote to the University of Toronto, requesting confirmation of Buhari's attendance, which the university denied. Finally, on July 23, 1999, Buhari admitted to falsifying his age and educational qualifications in a statement:
"I apologize to you. I apologize to the nation. I apologize to my family and friends for all the distress I have caused them. I was misled in error by a zeal to serve the nation, I hope the nation will forgive me and give me the opportunity to serve again."
He resigned from his position as Speaker of the House, and in 2003, he was convicted of certificate forgery and sentenced to two years in prison with an option of a fine. He paid the fine and was later pardoned by President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Buhari's case remains a significant example of the challenges and issues that plague Nigeria's political system. The case highlights the need for transparency, accountability, and integrity in Nigerian politics. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the country's educational system and the importance of upholding constitutional requirements for holding public office.
In conclusion, Salisu Buhari's story is a cautionary tale of how the quest for power and influence can lead to unethical and illegal behavior. His case serves as a reminder that leaders must uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability, and that the consequences of failing to do so can be severe.