In a recent legal development, United States District Judge Nancy Maldonado has granted a stay order, temporarily delaying the release of academic documents belonging to President Bola Tinubu. These documents were sought by the legal team of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The hearing took place late on Thursday night, following an emergency motion filed by President Tinubu’s lawyers seeking a delay in the implementation of the order to provide the documents to Atiku’s legal team.
The background to this legal matter involves a previous order by Magistrate Jeffrey Gilbert, which directed Chicago State University (CSU) to make available President Tinubu’s academic records within two days. The documents sought by Atiku’s legal team include records of admission and acceptance at the university, dates of attendance, degrees obtained, awards, and honors received by President Tinubu during his time at the institution.
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President Tinubu’s attorneys argued that the earlier decision by Magistrate Gilbert needed to be reviewed by a district judge. They emphasized that the magistrate did not have the authority to issue an order to the university to release non-privileged information and could only make a recommendation.
Speaking about the matter, Coordinator of Tinubu’s Presidential Legal Team, Babatunde Ogala, clarified that they were seeking a review rather than filing an appeal. He emphasized that the court had already confirmed President Tinubu’s attendance at the university and his academic achievements, including admission letters and semester results. The key question raised by President Tinubu’s legal team was the purpose behind Atiku’s request for these records, as they alleged it might involve fraudulent intentions.
Following this legal development, Judge Maldonado granted the request for a review and a delay in implementing the order until Monday. She acknowledged the importance of the case, especially considering legal deadlines in Nigeria, and expressed her commitment to ensuring a fair and thorough resolution.
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