Uche Nnaji, who served as the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, has stepped down from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet following persistent allegations of certificate forgery, insisting his decision is not an admission of guilt.
The former minister, who was appointed in August 2023, announced his resignation on Monday, attributing it to what he called a “sustained campaign of falsehood, politically motivated and malicious attacks” against him.
Nnaji’s resignation came in the wake of an extensive investigation by multiple media organisations like PEOPLES GAZETTE and PREMIUM TIMES, which alleged that he did not complete his university education and that both the bachelor’s degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate he submitted during his ministerial screening in 2023 were forged. These documents were presented to President Tinubu, the Senate, and security agencies like the Department of State Services (DSS).
Nnaji’s Rationale for Resignation
In a statement, the Enugu politician clarified that his decision was a matter of principle, made after “deep reflection and consultations” with his family and associates.
“My decision to step aside is therefore a personal choice—not an admission of guilt, but rather a principled decision to respect the sanctity of due process and to preserve the integrity of the judicial proceedings currently before the court,” he stated.
Nnaji argued that the “unfounded allegations and media distortions” were causing “personal distress” and beginning to “distract from the vital work of the ministry and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President.”
He concluded his statement by expressing confidence that his reputation, built over five decades on “hard work, honour, and service to humanity,” would be restored. “In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just.”
He also thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, pledging his continued support for the administration’s vision for an innovative Nigeria.
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