Former Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation Uche Nnaji Monday pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge of alleged forgery and conferring corrupt advantage upon himself while serving as a Minister.
Mr. Nnaji as charged before Judge Joyce Abdulmalik. After he took his plea, the prosecution informed the court that they had three witnesses in court, and they are ready to proceed with the trial.
Counsel representing Mr. Nnaji, James Onoja, SAN told the court that they have filed a bail application and want to move the same before the court and will need time to prepare for trial.
The prosecution did not oppose the application.
In a short ruling, Justice Abdulmalik granted bail to the former minister in the sum of N20million and one surety in like sum.
The surety must reside within the jurisdiction of the court and must have lived there for not less than four years.
He should deposit with the court an affidavit of lease of the said property
The surety must be a federal civil servant at grade level 15, and submit evidence of salary for 3 months
Also, the surety is required to deposit his letter of employment, a letter from his head of department, and a recent passport photograph with the court.
The defendant is to deposit his travel documents with the court.
The matter was adjourned until 21st September for trial.
Also Read:Â DSS nabs Uche Nnaji at Enugu airport
On Sunday that the ICPC concluded its investigation into the allegations against Mr. Nnaji and filed criminal charges against him before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The charges followed months of investigation into allegations that the former minister forged academic credentials and made false declarations.
The case stems from a petition challenging the authenticity of certificates Mr. Nnaji allegedly submitted during his nomination and screening for ministerial appointment.
In June, the ICPC obtained a 14-day remand order to detain Mr. Nnaji after informing the court that he repeatedly failed to honor invitations for questioning despite several notices.
He also appealed the court order authorizing his arrest, arguing that the decision should be set aside.
The anti-corruption agency subsequently filed criminal charges against him after concluding its investigation.
Investigation published in October last year exposed Mr. Nnaji’s forgery of the certificates he used to secure his ministerial appointment in 2023.
TVC NEWS
