By Ebi Kesiena
A coalition of Civil Society Organisations has called for an investigation into the academic and national service records of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, over allegations bordering on perjury and misrepresentation.
The coalition, led by the Civil Society Groups of Good Governance (CSGGG), made the demand during a press briefing, where its President and spokesperson, Chief Dominic Ogakwu, urged the Deputy Speaker to step aside while relevant authorities investigate the matter.
Ogakwu explained that the call for a probe was based on claims that Kalu may have participated in the programme of the Nigerian Law School and the mandatory scheme of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) within the same period.
According to the coalition, the allegations raise concerns about compliance with the regulations guiding both institutions and the ethical standards expected of public office holders.
The group claimed that during his admission into the Nigerian Law School, Kalu reportedly took an oath affirming that he would not be involved in any form of employment or participate in the NYSC programme throughout the duration of his legal training.
However, the coalition alleged that records indicate he was issued an NYSC discharge certificate covering the period from March 9, 2010, to March 8, 2011 — a timeframe they believe overlaps with his attendance at the Nigerian Law School.
The organisations argued that both the Law School programme and the NYSC scheme are full-time commitments, raising questions about how the Deputy Speaker could have legitimately taken part in both simultaneously.
“We are not accusing anyone of wrongdoing at this stage, but we believe the public deserves clarity and transparency,” the coalition stated.
The group therefore called on the National Youth Service Corps to provide details of Kalu’s service year and confirm whether he fully participated in the scheme.
It also urged the Nigerian Law School and the Council of Legal Education to release records confirming his attendance and participation in academic activities during the period in question.
Furthermore, the coalition asked the Deputy Speaker to publicly present evidence clarifying the alleged overlap and demonstrate that he complied with the rules governing both institutions.
The civil society groups warned that if the relevant authorities fail to address the matter within 72 hours, they may embark on further actions, including peaceful demonstrations at the National Assembly.
They stressed that public officials must uphold the highest standards of accountability and transparency to preserve public trust and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
