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A former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge over allegations of forging academic credentials, specifically a degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate submitted during his ministerial screening in 2023.
Nnaji was arraigned on Monday before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The charges further cover claims of receiving approximately ₦29.5 million in salary and emoluments under false pretences, as well as money laundering allegations.
Shortly after taking his plea, his counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Ogwu Onoja, told the court that he had filed a motion for bail.
Counsel for the prosecution said they were ready to proceed with the trial and had three witnesses. He also did not object to the defendant’s bail application, stating that it was at the discretion of the court.
Justice Abdulmalik subsequently granted him bail in the sum of ₦20 million with one surety in like sum.
The surety must be a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 15 and must have maintained a fixed place of residence for at least four years.
The surety must submit evidence of employment, including a letter of employment, and provide salary slips for the last three months.
The court directed that the relevant authority be notified to verify the surety’s employment status.
The defendant was also ordered to deposit his international passport and other travel documents with the court.
The matter was adjourned until September 21, 2026, for the commencement of trial.
