Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has insisted his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet is not an admission of guilt, but a principled decision to respect due process and preserve the integrity of ongoing judicial proceedings.
Nnaji stepped down on Tuesday, October 7, following allegations of certificate forgery.
PREMIUM TIMES investigations revealed that he allegedly did not complete his university education and that both the bachelor’s degree and NYSC certificate he submitted to the president, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Department of State Services, and the Senate were forged.
In a statement, the Enugu-born politician said his resignation followed “deep reflection and consultations” with family, associates, and concerned Nigerians.
He described the campaign against him as “a sustained campaign of falsehood, politically motivated and malicious attacks” targeting his integrity and office.
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“These unfounded allegations and media distortions have not only caused personal distress but have also begun to distract from the vital work of the ministry and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” Nnaji said.
Appointed in August 2023, Nnaji emphasised that his career spans over five decades, built on “hard work, honour, and service to humanity.”
“My decision to step aside is a personal choice — not an admission of guilt, but a principled decision to respect the sanctity of due process,” he said. “In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just.”
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, saying, “I remain deeply grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence he reposed in me and for the privilege to serve in his cabinet.
“His vision for a renewed, innovative, and technologically driven Nigeria is one I continue to hold dear, and I pledge my unflinching support to his administration and its transformative goals.”