Former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has clarified that his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet does not amount to an admission of guilt over the certificate forgery allegations leveled against him.
Naija Blog reports that Nnaji resigned on Monday following a Premium Times investigation which alleged that he did not complete his studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and that both his bachelor’s degree and NYSC certificate submitted to the Presidency and the Senate were forged.
‘Resignation a Matter of Principle, Not Guilt’
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Enugu-born politician explained that his resignation came after “deep reflection and consultations” with family, associates, and well-meaning Nigerians.
“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,” he said.
According to Nnaji, his decision to step aside was driven by integrity and respect for due process.
“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,” he added.
‘Justice Will Prevail’
The former minister maintained that he had spent over five decades building a reputation anchored on “hard work, honour, and service to humanity,” expressing confidence that “justice will prevail and history will vindicate the just.”
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve in his administration.
“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,” Nnaji 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,” he added.
Nnaji was appointed Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology in August 2023 before his resignation amid the ongoing controversy.