The Centre for Reform and Public Advocacy (CFRPA) has raised concerns over the transfer of a court case challenging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s academic credentials from the Federal High Court in Kano to the Abuja Division.
The organisation alleged that the circumstances surrounding the transfer could create an impression of preferential treatment for the President and his legal team.
CFRPA disclosed its position in a statement signed by its Head of Legal Unit, Kalu Kalu Agu, following the decision to move the case from the Kano Judicial Division to Abuja.
The group said it instituted the suit, marked FHC/KN/CS/312/2026, at the Federal High Court in Kano on June 26, 2026.
According to CFRPA, the case challenges credentials allegedly presented by President Tinubu and raises constitutional questions relating to Sections 131 and 137(1)(j) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.
The organisation claimed that the transfer followed an application by lawyers representing the President.
It questioned the speed and manner in which the request was granted, arguing that the development had created what it described as a reasonable perception of bias in favour of Tinubu and his legal representatives.
CFRPA maintained that the judiciary must not only act independently but must also be seen by the public to be impartial.
The group further expressed concern that moving the case to Abuja could impose additional financial and logistical difficulties on its members and witnesses based in Kano.
It described the transfer as an apparent attempt at “forum shopping” and argued that the case should remain in Kano, where it was originally filed.
CFRPA therefore called on the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court to reconsider the transfer and return the proceedings to the Kano Division.
The organisation also questioned why the President and his legal team would seek to have the matter moved away from Kano, particularly given that the case involves allegations concerning his academic credentials.
CFRPA said its legal action was aimed at promoting accountability, constitutionalism and adherence to the rule of law.
It vowed to pursue lawful avenues to challenge what it considers an attempt to undermine the proceedings or interfere with the administration of justice.
The group also urged the Federal High Court to ensure that the matter is handled transparently and that all parties are treated equally as the case progresses.
The dispute comes amid renewed public attention to questions surrounding the academic credentials submitted by President Tinubu, with CFRPA seeking judicial consideration of the issues raised in its suit.
However, the allegations of bias made by the organisation remain claims and have not been established by a court.
The outcome of any legal challenge to the transfer, as well as the substantive case concerning the President’s credentials, remains subject to the judicial process.
