Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Henry Owen
ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has stated that his recent resignation from office should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt in the ongoing allegations of certificate forgery leveled against him.
Nnaji tendered his resignation following an investigative report by PREMIUM TIMES alleging that he did not complete his university education and that the bachelor’s degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate he submitted were forged.
In a statement released after stepping down, the former minister described the claims as “false, malicious, and politically motivated,” insisting that his decision to resign was made in the interest of transparency and to allow for an independent investigation into the matter.
“My resignation is not an admission of guilt but a demonstration of responsibility,” Nnaji said. “I have nothing to hide and will cooperate fully with any legitimate inquiry to clear my name.”
See ...President Tinubu Accepts Resignation of Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology https://www.stonereportersnews.com/news-desk/2747787_president-tinubu-accepts-resignation-of-minister-of-innovation-science-and-technology.
He further urged the public to refrain from drawing premature conclusions, emphasizing that due process should be followed before any judgment is made.
“It is unfortunate that misinformation and half-truths can be used to tarnish a person’s image. I remain confident that the truth will prevail,” he added.
The Presidency has not yet issued an official statement on Nnaji’s resignation, but sources within the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology confirmed that his exit was accepted “to maintain public trust and uphold administrative integrity.”
The PREMIUM TIMES investigation, which sparked widespread reactions across political and civil society circles, alleged discrepancies in Nnaji’s academic records and NYSC documentation. The report claimed that the minister failed to complete his degree program at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), but later presented academic and service credentials purportedly issued in his name.
Calls for an official probe have since intensified, with anti-corruption advocates urging the Federal Government and relevant agencies to conduct a transparent investigation to establish the facts.
Nnaji, who served under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, reiterated his commitment to public service and maintained that he has “always acted with honesty and in accordance with the law.”
“I stepped aside to ensure that the allegations are investigated without distraction. I am confident that justice will be done,” he concluded.
The allegations and resignation come amid broader scrutiny of public officials’ credentials and increasing calls for stronger verification mechanisms across government appointments.
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