Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, appeared before the Federal High Court in Abujaon Monday to face criminal charges over allegations of certificate forgery and false declarations.
Nnaji arrived at the court dressed in a white outfit and a red cap, drawing attention as he acknowledged supporters and well-wishers who cheered him while he made his way into the courtroom.
The former minister is being arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.
According to the anti-graft agency, Nnaji is facing charges bordering on certificate forgery and making false statementsin documents allegedly submitted to public authorities.
The case stems from an investigation into the authenticity of the academic credentials he allegedly presented during his nomination and screening for a ministerial appointment in 2023.
Following its investigation, the ICPC filed criminal charges against the former minister at the Federal High Court.
The controversy began after a petition questioned the authenticity of the certificates allegedly submitted by Nnaji to secure his appointment.
In June, the commission obtained a 14-day remand order after informing the court that the former minister had allegedly failed to honour several invitations for questioning despite receiving multiple notices.
Nnaji subsequently challenged the remand order, asking the court to set aside the warrant authorising his arrest.
However, after concluding its investigation, the ICPC proceeded with the prosecution by filing formal charges before the court.
Despite the allegations, Nnaji has consistently denied forging any academic certificate or making false declarations, insisting that he is innocent of the charges.
The court is expected to continue proceedings as both the prosecution and defence present their cases.