Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has dismissed claims linking his resignation to guilt over certificate forgery, insisting that his decision was guided by integrity and respect for due process.

Resignation amid certificate scandal

Nnaji’s resignation came shortly after a Premium Times investigation alleged inconsistencies in his academic qualifications.

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), reportedly disowned the Bachelor of Science degree he presented, confirming that although he was admitted in 1981, he did not complete his programme.

The controversy triggered public outrage, with calls for accountability from civil groups and political commentators. Following days of silence, Nnaji tendered his resignation letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.

He described the allegations as “malicious blackmail” aimed at undermining his reputation and distracting from the ministry’s work under the Tinubu administration.

Nnaji: ‘My resignation is not admission of guilt’

In a personally signed statement, the former minister said his resignation was not an admission of wrongdoing but a move to uphold transparency and preserve his dignity.

“After deep reflection and consultation with family and well-meaning Nigerians, I have tendered my resignation to allow due process to take its course,” Nnaji said. “My decision is personal and not an acceptance of guilt, but a matter of principle.”

He stressed that the allegations had caused him personal distress and disrupted the ministry’s focus on innovation and technology advancement. “Justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just,” he concluded.

Nnaji’s exit marks one of the highest-profile resignations in President Tinubu’s cabinet since its formation.

His departure also reignites debates about vetting procedures for ministerial appointments and the need for transparency in Nigeria’s governance system.