Fresh controversy has erupted over Tinubu’s academic history following a viral video where he introduced a Russian national, Alexander Lutsenko, as his former schoolmate at Chicago State University (CSU).
In a video posted online on Monday by pro-Tinubu and APC commentator Imran Muhammad, the Nigerian leader appeared alongside Lutsenko, identifying him as a neighbour and schoolmate from their university days in Chicago.
But hours later, a post by X user Tosin Olugbenga challenged the credibility of Tinubu’s claim. Citing verifiable data, he pointed out that “Alexander Lutsenko is a Russian Citizen, a billionaire and is 63 years old. He was born in 1962. Tinubu claimed to have attended Chicago State University (CSU) in 1976. Alexander was 13 years old at the time Tinubu ‘gained’ admission into CSU. Go and Verify.”
The post ignited another round of scrutiny into Tinubu’s long-disputed academic credentials, which have remained a topic of public debate since his emergence in Nigerian politics.
Social media users were quick to weigh in. @FrancisoBrainy accused the administration of engaging in falsehood, stating, “They just lie blatantly without proper background checks cos they think Nigerians are stupid. The guy too is laughing like ode knowing that his account has been fattened.”
@enugu_updates added, “Normally, Alex came to cash out. But why would a whole President stoop so low to try and make a point. Now the truth is coming out.” @eromsidem, another respondent, claimed, “Alexander Lutsenko studied at the Political College of Arms in Minsk,” casting further doubt on any supposed CSU affiliation.
Another user, @AdekuleOderind, offered a more sarcastic take: “It will be very interesting to have Mr Alex visit @ARISEtv Arise TV tomorrow to share his first hand experience while he was studying in USA with President Tinubu. He will definitely have stories to share and pictures to show the world with his friend President Tinubu.”
The controversy adds to ongoing credibility issues surrounding Tinubu’s personal history, particularly his education, which came under renewed global attention after court-ordered disclosures from Chicago State University last year.
