Ex-Minister Uche Nnaji Arrives Court for Arraignment Over Alleged Certificate Forgery

Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday for arraignment over alleged certificate forgery and false declaration charges filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Nnaji, who arrived at the court dressed in white attire and a red cap, acknowledged supporters in the courtroom as proceedings commenced before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.

The ICPC is expected to arraign the former minister on charges bordering on alleged forgery and making false statements in documents reportedly submitted to public authorities during his nomination and screening for ministerial appointment in 2023.

The case stems from a petition challenging the authenticity of the academic credentials Nnaji allegedly presented for his ministerial appointment.

In June, the anti-graft agency secured a 14-day remand order after informing the court that the former minister had repeatedly failed to honour invitations for questioning despite receiving several notices.

Nnaji subsequently challenged the arrest order, asking the court to set it aside.

Following the conclusion of its investigation, the ICPC filed criminal charges against the former minister at the Federal High Court.

Nnaji has consistently denied the allegations, insisting that he neither forged any certificate nor made false declarations. Court proceedings are expected to determine the next stage of the trial.