Jul 13, 2026

Ex-Minister Nnaji Pleads Not Guilty in Forgery Scandal

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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ABUJA, Nigeria — In a dramatic courtroom showdown that has captivated public attention, former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, on Monday pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge of certificate forgery, obtaining money under false pretenses, and money laundering.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) arraigned the ex-minister before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Nnaji, who served in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, faces allegations of forging a degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate, which he allegedly submitted during his 2023 ministerial screening.

The charges also include claims that he received approximately ₦29.5 million in salaries and emoluments under false pretenses.

The case stems from a thorough investigation sparked by exposés that questioned the authenticity of his credentials.

After entering his not-guilty plea, the ICPC prosecutor signaled readiness for trial, with three witnesses already present in court.

Defence counsel Ogwu Onoja, SAN, requested more time to prepare and mentioned a pending bail application filed on July 9. The prosecution did not oppose the bail.

In a swift ruling, Justice Abdulmalik granted Nnaji bail in the sum of N20 million with one surety not below Grade Level 15 in the Federal Civil Service, who must reside in Abuja.

Additional conditions include the surrender of his official and personal passports. The matter has been adjourned for further proceedings.

Nnaji’s resignation from the ministerial position in October 2025 came amid mounting scrutiny, which he described as a principled step to allow due process.

The development has reignited national conversations about integrity in public office, the credibility of public officials, and the effectiveness of anti-corruption agencies in holding the powerful accountable.

The ICPC’s persistence — from securing a remand warrant, making an arrest at the airport, to today’s arraignment — highlights a broader push against credential fraud, a persistent issue that undermines trust in governance and merit-based systems in Nigeria.

For many Nigerians, this case symbolizes more than one man’s legal battle. It touches on questions of accountability, the value of genuine education and service, and whether high office should be accessible only to those who meet basic integrity thresholds.

As the trial progresses, all eyes will be on the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The outcome could set a significant precedent in the fight against certificate forgery and related offences.

In a democracy striving for transparency, cases like this remind citizens that no one is above the law — regardless of past positions or political connections.

The journey to justice continues.