Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has stepped down from office after weeks of mounting pressure over forged academic records.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed the resignation in a statement released late Tuesday.
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, stated that Nnaji was admitted in 1981 with matriculation number 1981/30725 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry but did not complete his programme.
UNN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon U. Ortuanya, explained that the institution had no record of him graduating in July 1985 and never issued him a degree certificate.
The university’s position contradicted a letter previously issued by its Registrar in December 2023, which claimed Nnaji graduated in July 1985. The university has since voided that statement.
In an affidavit filed before the Federal High Court in Abuja, Nnaji admitted that the university never issued him a certificate, though he insisted he had finished his studies.
He stated that his inability to collect the certificate was due to what he described as the non-cooperative attitude of university officials.
The National Youth Service Corps,NYSC,also disowned the certificate of national service presented by Nnaji.
The agency stated that the document did not originate from its records. Investigators identified irregularities in the certificate, including a forged signature, an invalid numbering format, and a service period of 13 months instead of the statutory 12 months.
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A Federal High Court dismissed Nnaji’s attempt to prevent UNN from releasing his academic records, allowing the institution to clarify its position publicly.
The controversy surrounding his academic history intensified in recent weeks, placing pressure on him to vacate office.
His resignation brings to an end his tenure as Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology.
With his exit, the presidency is expected to nominate a replacement to oversee the ministry.
Crediblenewsng.com
