Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, on Monday appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja to face arraignment over alleged certificate forgery and false declaration charges filed against him by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Nnaji arrived at the court ahead of proceedings before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, dressed in a white traditional outfit and a red cap. He acknowledged supporters gathered in the courtroom by raising his right hand as he made his way inside.
The anti-graft agency is prosecuting the former minister on charges bordering on alleged forgery and making false statements in documents reportedly submitted to public authorities during his appointment process.
The arraignment follows the conclusion of an ICPC investigation into allegations that Nnaji falsified academic credentials and made misleading declarations while seeking nomination and screening for ministerial office.
The case originated from a petition questioning the authenticity of certificates allegedly presented by the former minister during his nomination and confirmation for appointment in 2023.
Before filing the charges, the ICPC had secured a 14-day remand order in June, informing the court that Nnaji repeatedly failed to honour several invitations for questioning despite multiple notices.
The former minister challenged the court’s decision authorising his arrest, asking that the order be set aside. However, following the completion of its investigation, the commission proceeded to institute criminal charges against him before the Federal High Court.
The allegations gained national attention after an investigative report published in October last year claimed that Nnaji forged the academic certificates he allegedly relied on to secure his ministerial appointment.
Despite the accusations, Nnaji has consistently denied any wrongdoing and is expected to take his plea as the court begins hearing the case.
