By Muhammad Mamman
A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, has dismissed allegations that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, forged his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate, describing the claims as “malicious, politically motivated, and entirely without substance.”
Speaking with journalists at the National Assembly complex in Abuja on Monday, Gagdi said the rumour was part of a coordinated smear campaign aimed at discrediting a hardworking and reform-minded minister whose record of public service “speaks for itself.”
“Those peddling this falsehood are enemies of progress,” Gagdi stated. “Dr. Tunji-Ojo has served this country with transparency and excellence. He has brought innovation and discipline to the Ministry of Interior, and that is why some people are uncomfortable.”
The lawmaker, who represents Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency of Plateau State, called on Nigerians to ignore what he described as a desperate attempt to distract the minister from his ongoing reforms in public safety, passport administration, and internal security.
“Instead of applauding his achievements — from streamlining the passport process to digitalising key operations — some detractors are resorting to blackmail,” he said. “But Nigerians are wiser now and can see through these political games.”
Gagdi further urged the National Youth Service Corps to speak publicly on the matter to put an end to what he called “fake narratives being circulated online for cheap political gains.”
“If there is any doubt, the NYSC should issue a formal clarification. This witch-hunt must stop,” he added.
The forgery claim, which originated from a viral post on social media, alleged that Tunji-Ojo presented a falsified NYSC certificate when he sought public office — an accusation the minister’s aides have since dismissed as “laughable and desperate.”
Political observers note that the controversy comes at a time when Tunji-Ojo has gained wide public recognition for his administrative efficiency, particularly in reforming Nigeria’s immigration and correctional systems.
Civil society groups and analysts have also warned against the growing trend of using misinformation to target public officials, calling on authorities to take stronger action against purveyors of false news.
“The deliberate spread of unverified claims undermines governance and public trust,” said one Abuja-based analyst. “Such allegations should be backed by evidence, not hearsay.”
Meanwhile, supporters of the minister have taken to social media to defend him, praising his “results-driven leadership” and dismissing the forgery allegation as a political ploy to tarnish his rising profile.
“This is character assassination, plain and simple,” one supporter wrote. “Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s performance has outshone many, and that is what threatens his critics.”
The Ministry of Interior has not issued an official response beyond confirming that the minister remains focused on delivering the administration’s reform agenda.
