According to Premium Times, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has officially arraigned the former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji. The 63-year-old ex-official faces a six-count charge relating to the alleged falsification of academic certificates and the illicit diversion of public funds during his tenure in office. He was brought before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The prosecution stated that the first two counts address the misappropriation of ministry finances, while the remaining four counts center on the presentation of forged credentials to gain public office. The defendant entered a plea of not guilty to all allegations leveled against him. The court has scheduled further hearings to deliberate on bail conditions and the commencement of the trial.
This legal action signals a renewed effort by anti-graft agencies to enforce accountability among high-ranking political figures. The development has attracted significant national attention, given the strategic role the ministry plays in Nigeria’s technological advancement.
The Nation reported extensively on the court proceedings, noting that “the defense counsel urged the court to grant the former minister bail on self-recognizance pending the determination of the substantive suit.” In a parallel report, Vanguard documented the anti-graft agency’s stance, quoting the prosecution team who argued that “the nature of the offenses demands rigorous judicial scrutiny to serve as a deterrent against public office malpractice.”
Echotitbits take: This high-profile arraignment underscores the intensifying scrutiny on public officials’ backgrounds and financial dealings in Nigeria. If convicted, it could redefine cabinet vetting procedures and bolster the ICPC’s stance against institutional corruption. Watch for how the defense handles the certificate validation trail in the coming sessions.
Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/894876-breaking-icpc-arraigns-ex-minister-uche-nnaji-for-certificate-forgery-misappropriation-of-funds.html, July 13, 2026
Photo credit: Premium Times
