Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, says his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet is not an admission of guilt but a demonstration of respect for due process.
Nnaji resigned on Monday following allegations of certificate forgery against him. An investigation by Premium Times alleged that he did not complete his university education and that the bachelor’s degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate he presented to various government offices — including the Presidency, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Senate — were forged.
In a statement, the Enugu-born politician said his decision came after “deep reflection and consultations” with family, associates, and well-meaning Nigerians.
He described the move as a response to a “sustained campaign of falsehood, politically motivated and malicious attacks” against his person, integrity, and office.
“These unfounded allegations and media distortions have not only caused personal distress but have also begun to distract from the vital work of the ministry and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” Nnaji said.
He emphasized that his resignation was a “personal choice — not an admission of guilt,” but rather “a principled decision to respect the sanctity of due process and to preserve the integrity of the judicial proceedings currently before the court.”
The former minister, appointed in August 2023, said he had spent more than five decades building a reputation grounded in “hard work, honour, and service to humanity.”
“In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just,” he added.
Nnaji also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve in his administration, pledging continued support for the government’s vision.
“I remain deeply grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence he reposed in me and for the privilege to serve in his cabinet,” he said.
“His vision for a renewed, innovative, and technologically driven Nigeria is one I continue to hold dear, and I pledge my unflinching support to his administration and its transformative goals.”