The major reason behind the resignation of the first speaker of the House of Representatives in Nigeria between 1999-2003 democratic era was

Analyze the question: It asks why the first Speaker of the House of Representatives in the Fourth Republic (1999-2003) resigned.

Background: The first Speaker was Alhaji Salisu Buhari (PDP, from Kano), elected in June 1999. Shortly after, it emerged that he had falsified his credentials. He claimed to hold a degree from the University of Toronto, Canada, and he also falsified his age. He had not graduated from the university. The House investigated him, and he was forced to resign in July 1999. He was later convicted and pardoned by President Obasanjo.

Matching the options:

• A. Bankruptcy: not the issue.
• B. Citizenship: his nationality was never in question.
• C. Financial enrichment: this was not the cause of his resignation. His problem was falsified credentials, not money.
• D. Forgery: he forged his certificate and misrepresented his age. This is the correct reason.
• E. Political carpet crossing: this is defecting from one party to another, and it did not apply to him.

Forgery (certificate falsification) is the major reason behind his resignation.

Exam tip: Remember "Salisu Buhari = certificate scandal = forgery." Also remember the Fourth Republic leadership changes: Evan Enwerem (Senate President) was forced out in 1999 over allegations about his age and name, and Chuba Okadigbo succeeded him later. Questions about early Fourth Republic scandals often come up in Government exams.