Former presidential aide and social commentator, Reno Omokri, has openly criticized former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, following Obi’s recent remarks opposing the Federal Government’s proposed review of Mathematics as a compulsory subject for art students seeking university admission.
Obi Opposes Policy Shift
Peter Obi, in a recent statement titled “Back and Forth Policy on Mathematics: A Costly Mistake,” expressed strong disapproval of reports suggesting that Mathematics may no longer be a mandatory subject for university admission into art-related courses.
While the Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that Mathematics remains compulsory at the secondary school level, the potential removal of the subject as a prerequisite for tertiary education in the arts has sparked widespread debate.
Obi argued that the proposed changes could lead to a decline in academic standards and weaken the intellectual foundation of Nigerian students, even in non-scientific disciplines.
“Mathematics builds analytical thinking and problem-solving skills essential in all fields,” Obi stated. “Exempting any group of students from this foundational subject could have long-term negative consequences.”
Responds: “You Didn’t Get a Credit in Maths”
Reacting via his verified social media accounts, Reno Omokri challenged Obi’s moral authority to comment on academic standards, citing Obi’s own admission that he did not obtain a credit in Mathematics during his secondary school education.
“See someone who did not get a credit in Mathematics insisting that Nigerian art students must pass Mathematics during WAEC before they can gain admission into a university,” Omokri wrote. “By his own admission, he did not merit his admission. That means Peter Obi should return his certificate to UNN.”
Omokri further contrasted Obi’s position with what he described as the progressive steps taken by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, such as the rollout of student loan schemes designed to increase access to higher education.
“Obi’s policies are about putting roadblocks before students. Tinubu is about removing obstacles,” he added.
Public Reaction Remains Divided
The exchange between the two prominent figures has sparked divided reactions across social media and educational circles.
Supporters of Obi argue that academic policy should focus on long-term educational integrity rather than political point-scoring.
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Others echo Omokri’s view, suggesting that flexibility in university admission criteria could create opportunities for more students from non-scientific backgrounds.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education has yet to release a formal policy document clarifying whether Mathematics will be removed as an admission requirement for art-related courses.
Implications for Education Policy
As the debate unfolds, analysts note that the controversy touches on deeper issues within Nigeria’s education system, including curriculum reform, equity in access, and the balance between maintaining standards and expanding opportunities.
Education experts warn that any major policy shift—particularly concerning core subjects like Mathematics—must be carefully evaluated to avoid unintended consequences for students, institutions, and the Labour market.
