Nigeria's former Innovation Minister Uche Nnaji faces forgery probe

A coalition of lawyers and public‑interest analysts has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure the swift prosecution of former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Uche Nnaji over alleged forgery of university and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificates. The group praised the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for arresting Nnaji at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on a bench warrant, but criticised delays in the investigation.

The lawyers cite a Premium Times investigation that found Nnaji never graduated from the University of Nigeria, citing correspondence from 1985‑86 and a handwritten request to retake a failed virology course. They also argue the NYSC discharge certificate bears a signature from a director‑general who only took office in 1988, contradicting the document’s 1985‑86 service dates. The coalition urges the recovery of salaries, allowances and benefits paid to Nnaji from 2023 until his resignation in October 2025 if the allegations are proven.