Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has pleaded not guilty to a six count charge bordering on alleged certificate forgery, obtaining salaries under false pretences and money laundering after being arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.
The anti corruption agency accused the former minister of forging a degree certificate allegedly obtained from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, as well as presenting a purportedly fake National Youth Service Corps discharge certificate during his ministerial screening in 2023. Prosecutors also alleged that he unlawfully received about ₦29.5 million in salaries and other emoluments while serving in public office.
When the charges were read before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, Nnaji pleaded not guilty to all six counts. Following his plea, the prosecution informed the court that it was ready to commence trial immediately and had three witnesses available to testify. However, the defence requested more time to prepare its case and urged the court to consider an earlier bail application filed on behalf of the former minister...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
After hearing both parties, Justice Abdulmalik admitted Nnaji to bail in the sum of ₦20 million with conditions attached. The court also ordered him to deposit both his official and international passports and directed that he must not travel outside Nigeria without the court’s approval.
The judge subsequently adjourned the matter until July 21 for the commencement of trial, where the prosecution is expected to begin presenting evidence and witnesses in support of the allegations.
The case has drawn significant public attention because of the serious allegations involving academic credentials and official documents submitted during the ministerial screening process. While the ICPC maintains that it has sufficient evidence to prove the charges, Nnaji insists on his innocence and is expected to vigorously challenge the allegations as the trial progresses. The outcome of the case is likely to be closely watched, given its implications for public accountability and integrity in government appointments.
