By Tekena Amieyeofori
Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has denied allegations of forging his academic and NYSC certificates. He pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge when he appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday.
The case, brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), accuses Nnaji of submitting fake academic credentials and a forged NYSC discharge certificate during his ministerial screening in 2023. He is also charged with allegedly collecting about ₦29.5 million in salaries and allowances under false claims, alongside counts related to money laundering.
Following his plea, Nnaji’s lawyer, Ogwu Onoja (SAN), informed Justice Joyce Abdulmalik that a bail application had been filed. The ICPC lawyer said the Commission was ready to begin trial with three witnesses and did not oppose bail.
Justice Abdulmalik granted bail in the sum of ₦20 million with one surety in the same amount, ordering Nnaji to surrender his international passport and other travel documents. The trial is scheduled to begin on September 21, 2026.
The ICPC had earlier confirmed Nnaji’s arrest on July 1, following a bench warrant issued by the Federal High Court after he ignored several invitations delivered to his Abuja and Enugu addresses, as well as via email. A court order dated June 11, 2026, authorised his arrest to allow investigation into claims of forged certificates.
Nnaji resigned from his ministerial role in October 2025 after reports surfaced that he falsified his university degree and NYSC certificate. While he insists he graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1975, reports indicate the institution has yet to confirm his academic records.
The ICPC has vowed to pursue the case thoroughly in line with the law.