Tinubu files emergency appeal to block Chicago university from releasing records, testifying under oath

President Bola Tinubu has filed an emergency application seeking a review of the judgement that ordered the release of his academic records to Atiku Abubakar.

Judge Jeffrey Gilbert of the United States District Court had on September 19 ordered Chicago State University to release Mr Tinubu’s records to his Nigerian political opponent as part of an ongoing election challenge proceeding in Nigeria.

The judge said the records must be turned over to Mr Abubakar on September 21. He also said school administrators must submit themselves to certify all released records under oath.

But as the school started preparing to release the files, Mr Tinubu entered an emergency application in the district asking a senior judge to review Mr Gilbert’s September 19 order and delay execution until at least September 25.

“Due to the timing for compliance by Chicago State University – later today – Intervenor is filing this motion separately from its challenge to the Magistrate’s ruling on the application,” Mr Tinubu’s lawyers, led by Christopher Carmichael, said. “Intervenor intends to file, by the end of the day, a substantive brief addressing the errors in the Magistrate’s decision.”

Judge Nancy Maldonado of the district has scheduled an urgent hearing on the matter for 3:00 p.m. local time.

Lawyers to all parties, CSU and Messrs Tinubu and Atiku, are expected to join the virtual conference.