Uche Nnaji denies guilt, says resignation shows respect for due process

By Kunle Sanni –

Former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, says his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet is not an admission of guilt but a gesture of respect for due process amid allegations of certificate forgery.

Nnaji, who stepped down on Monday, has been at the centre of controversy following reports alleging that he forged his university degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate. The reports claimed that the credentials he presented to the President, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Senate were fabricated.

In a statement released shortly after his resignation, the Enugu-born politician said the decision came after “deep reflection and consultations” with his family, associates, and concerned Nigerians.

He described his resignation as a response to what he called a “sustained campaign of falsehood, politically motivated and malicious attacks” aimed at tarnishing his image and distracting from the ministry’s work.

“These unfounded allegations and media distortions have not only caused personal distress but have also begun to distract from the vital work of the ministry and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” Nnaji said.

Appointed in August 2023, Nnaji said he had built a reputation over five decades based on “hard work, honour, and service to humanity.”

“My decision to step aside is therefore a personal choice — not an admission of guilt, but 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. “In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just.”

Nnaji also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, pledging continued support for the administration’s policies. “I remain deeply grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence he reposed in me and for the privilege to serve in his cabinet,” he said. “His vision for a renewed, innovative, and technologically driven Nigeria is one I continue to hold dear.”