Uche Nnaji arraigned for certificate forgery

Former Nigerian Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, was arraigned on July 13, 2026, before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja on a six-count charge filed by the Nigeria — Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC). The charges include alleged certificate forgery, making false declarations, corruption, and money laundering. Specifically, Nnaji is accused of forging a degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, and a Nigeria — National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate, which he allegedly submitted during his ministerial screening in 2023. He is also accused of receiving approximately N29.58 million in salaries and allowances under false pretenses. Nnaji pleaded not guilty to all charges. The prosecution stated readiness to proceed with three witnesses, but the defense requested time to prepare. The court granted Nnaji bail of N20 million with one surety, a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 15, and ordered him to deposit his passports. The case was adjourned to September 21, 2026, for trial. Nnaji was arrested on June 30, 2026, by the United States — United States Department of State (DSS) at Nigeria — Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport after a bench warrant was issued for his failure to honor ICPC invitations. He had resigned as minister in October 2025 amid the allegations. A civil society group, Global Gender Safety and Moral Development, protested outside the court demanding transparent prosecution. Nnaji is the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State.