Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has clarified that his resignation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet does not imply guilt but reflects his respect for due process and the rule of law.
Gatekeepers News reports that Nnaji stepped down on Monday amid allegations of certificate forgery leveled against him.
According to reports, the former minister never completed his university education, and the degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate he presented to the presidency, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Senate, and the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) were forged.
In a statement issued shortly after his resignation, the politician said his decision came after deep reflection and consultations with his family, political associates, and concerned Nigerians.
He described his resignation as a response to a sustained campaign of falsehood, politically motivated and malicious attacks against his person and office.
Nnaji said, “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 has spent over fifty years building a life defined by hard work, honour, and service to humanity. He stressed that stepping aside was a moral choice to allow due process to take its course.
He added, “My decision to step aside is therefore 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. In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just.”
Nnaji expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve in his cabinet and reaffirmed his commitment to the administration’s vision.
He said, “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. 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.”
