Uche Nnaji Denies Guilt, Says Resignation Was ‘Matter of Principle’ Amid Certificate Scandal

• Uche Nnaji, has refuted claims that his resignation was tied to guilt over alleged certificate forgery.
• In a statement, he said his decision was “personal and not an acceptance of guilt, but a matter of principle,” describing the accusations as “malicious blackmail” meant to damage his reputation.
• Nnaji maintained that justice would prevail and history would “vindicate the just.”

ormer Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has denied claims that his resignation was an admission of guilt over alleged certificate forgery, insisting his decision was based on integrity and due process.

Nnaji resigned after a Premium Times report alleged inconsistencies in his academic record, with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), reportedly confirming he did not complete his programme.

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

Describing the allegations as “malicious blackmail,” Nnaji added that the controversy had caused him distress and distracted the ministry’s work. “Justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just,” he concluded.