Former Science Minister faces six-count charge over alleged fake UNN degree, bogus NYSC discharge certificate used in 2023 ministerial screening
The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted N20 million bail to former Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, after he pleaded not guilty to a six-count certificate forgery charge filed by the ICPC.
Nnaji, who served in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet from August 2023 until his resignation on October 6, 2025, is accused of forging a degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and presenting a fake NYSC discharge certificate during his ministerial screening in 2023.
The former minister, however, maintained his innocence before trial judge Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.
Bail Conditions:
· N20 million bail with one surety in like sum
· Surety must be a civil servant in Abuja not below Grade Level 15
· Surety must depose to an affidavit of means
· Nnaji must surrender his international passport
· Travel ban – cannot leave Nigeria without court permission
What Happened
Security operatives arrested Nnaji at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on July 1, upon his return to the FCT. The ICPC confirmed the arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into the allegations against him.
What’s Next:
Justice Abdulmalik has fixed July 21 for the commencement of trial.
