Uche Nnaji, the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, has formally entered a plea of not guilty regarding accusations that he falsified his university diploma and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) completion papers. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) initiated the case, leading to his appearance before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The legal action includes six counts, ranging from the fabrication of documents from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to allegations of money laundering and illegally obtaining over N29.5 million in public salary. While the prosecution stated readiness to begin with three witnesses present, Nnaji’s defense attorney, Ogwu Onoja, requested additional time to prepare, referencing a previously submitted bail request.
Justice Abdulmalik approved bail at N20 million, requiring one surety who serves as a federal civil servant at level 15 or higher and resides in Abuja. Nnaji must also surrender his travel documents. The investigation was triggered after both the university and the NYSC reportedly distanced themselves from the credentials he provided during his 2023 ministerial vetting. Before this court appearance, the Department of State Services apprehended Nnaji on June 30, 2026, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, following his failure to respond to prior investigative summons. Nnaji, who is the People’s Democratic Party governorship nominee for Enugu State, stepped down from his ministerial post in October 2025, maintaining that the accusations are politically driven.
