Former Minister Challenges Court Order
Uche Nnaji, who served as President Bola Tinubu's Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, has formally appealed the arrest warrant issued against him by the Federal High Court in Abuja. The warrant, granted on an ex parte application by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), relates to allegations that Nnaji forged academic and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) documents.
The court order, issued in mid-June under suit number FCH/ABJ/CS/1160/2026, directed law enforcement to apprehend Nnaji for investigation. The ICPC sought the warrant after the former minister repeatedly failed to respond to investigative invitations, according to court documents.
Forgery Claims Led to Resignation
The certificate forgery allegations first emerged in October 2025, prompting Nnaji to step down from his ministerial position. Reports by Premium Times and Leadership detailed claims that he falsified his degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and his NYSC discharge certificate, both of which were submitted during his 2023 ministerial screening.
In response to the allegations, Nnaji petitioned the Ministry of Education on October 14, 2025, accusing UNN officials—including Vice Chancellor Simon Ortuanya and former acting Vice Chancellor Oguejiofor Ujam—of tampering with his academic records, issuing unauthorized correspondence, and leaking his file to the media. The ministry subsequently set up a seven-member panel on November 23, 2025, to investigate the matter.
Education Ministry Confirms Forgery
The panel, led by Minister of Education Tunji Alausa, submitted its report in December 2025, confirming that Nnaji had indeed forged his degree certificate from UNN. The education minister publicly stated the panel's findings, validating the earlier investigative reports that had sparked the controversy.
The ICPC has indicated it will proceed with arraignment once Nnaji is taken into custody. The court also granted the anti-graft agency permission to declare the former minister wanted in national dailies, social media platforms, and other media outlets.
Broader Context
This case adds to the scrutiny of high-profile appointments under President Tinubu's administration. Nnaji's appeal marks a legal battle that could set precedents for handling credential fraud among public officials. Meanwhile, the ICPC continues its investigation, and the former minister remains at large pending the outcome of his appeal.
