Yemi Solade Questions the Fate of Celebrities with ‘Questionable’ Degrees from Benin

Nollywood star Yemi Solade has raised a big question about the recent crackdown on fake degrees. The Nigerian Federal Government recently exposed that many people have been using fake degrees from degree mills in Benin Republic and Togo.

On August 25, 2024, Solade took to Instagram to challenge the situation. He asked Nigerian Education Minister, Prof. Tahir Mamman, about the fate of honorary degrees that some Nigerian celebrities have flaunted.

His post asked, “What happens to the absurd doctorate degrees flaunted by Nigerian celebs, now that the FG has declared Benin degrees invalid? Consequently, how will this impact those who proudly display these degrees?”

Solade’s followers quickly chimed in, sharing their thoughts on the matter. One comment said, “Valid question… but the answer is clear: They should never be used,” while another added, “It’s a waste.”

The Federal Government recently announced that around 21,600 graduates have fake certificates from institutions in Benin Republic, Togo, and elsewhere.

Minister of Education Prof. Tahir Mamman revealed this during a briefing on August 23, 2024. He promised to remove these fake degrees from the system and directed the Head of Civil Service to clear out those holding them.

Mamman stated that only three universities in Togo and five in the Benin Republic hold official licenses to offer degrees.