Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has pleaded not guilty to six counts of alleged certificate forgery and money laundering filed against him by the ICPC.
Nnaji was arraigned on Monday before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
According to the charge sheet, the ICPC alleges that Nnaji forged:
1. A degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka [UNN]
2. An NYSC discharge certificate submitted during his 2023 ministerial screening
The Commission also accused him of receiving about ₦29.5 million in salaries and emoluments under false pretenses, as well as money laundering.
Both UNN and NYSC have reportedly disowned the certificates in question, following months of investigation.
Nnaji pleaded not guilty to all six counts.
Prosecution counsel told the court it was ready to begin trial immediately and had three witnesses present.
His lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, asked for more time to prepare and moved a bail application filed on July 9. The prosecution did not oppose it.
In her ruling, Justice Abdulmalik granted Nnaji bail in the sum of ₦20 million with one surety.
Bail conditions:
– Surety: Must be a Federal Civil Servant not below Grade Level 15
– Residence: Surety must reside in Abuja
– Travel documents: Nnaji must deposit both his official and personal passports
The case was adjourned to September 21, 2026 for commencement of trial.
Nnaji was arrested on June 30, 2026 by DSS operatives at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, upon arrival from Enugu.
The arrest followed a Federal High Court order issued on June 11, 2026, after he allegedly failed to honor multiple invitations for questioning.
He resigned from the Federal Executive Council on October 7, 2025, calling it a “principled decision to respect the sanctity of due process.” At the time, he denied any wrongdoing and described parts of the case as politically motivated.
Nnaji is currently the PDP governorship candidate for Enugu State.
