Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, Resigns Over Certificate Forgery Allegations
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Tinubu Accepts Nnaji’s Resignation Amid Certificate Forgery Allegations
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, following allegations of certificate forgery levelled against him.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Nnaji tendered his resignation voluntarily after days of growing controversy surrounding his credentials.
“President Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, following some allegations against him,” Onanuga stated.
He added that Nnaji expressed gratitude to the President for the opportunity to serve, saying he had become a target of “blackmail by political opponents.”
Nnaji: “I’ve Been a Victim of Political Blackmail”
In his resignation letter, Nnaji reportedly maintained his innocence, describing the allegations as the handiwork of those threatened by his reform efforts in the Ministry.
He wrote, “I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Your Excellency for the confidence reposed in me to serve our great country. However, in the face of orchestrated blackmail and malicious claims, I have decided to step aside to clear my name and protect the integrity of your administration.”
President Tinubu, according to Onanuga, commended Nnaji for his service and wished him success in his future endeavours.
“The President thanked him for his contributions to national development and wished him well in his future pursuits,” the statement added.
Background: Rising Pressure and Allegations
Akahi News gathered that the controversy began after reports surfaced alleging discrepancies in Nnaji’s academic records and professional qualifications. Opposition figures and civil society organisations reportedly called for his suspension pending investigation by relevant agencies.
The allegations, though yet to be independently verified, sparked public debate over the credibility of political appointees and the integrity of the screening processes that preceded their appointments.
Nnaji, a native of Enugu State, was appointed by President Tinubu in August 2023 as part of the administration’s effort to revitalise Nigeria’s science, technology, and innovation sectors. Before his appointment, he had served in various private and public sector roles, earning a reputation for his involvement in technology-driven entrepreneurship.
Presidency Yet to Name Replacement
As of press time, the Presidency has not announced a replacement for the vacant ministerial position. Sources within the Presidential Villa told Akahi News that an acting minister may be appointed in the interim to ensure continuity in policy execution.
Observers note that this resignation is the latest in a string of cabinet shake-ups since Tinubu assumed office in 2023, reflecting the administration’s effort to maintain accountability and discipline among top officials.
Reactions Trail Resignation
Reactions have continued to trail Nnaji’s exit, with some describing it as a necessary step to preserve public confidence in the government.
A political analyst told Akahi News that the resignation “shows that President Tinubu is not willing to tolerate any cloud of controversy that could dent his administration’s image.”
Others, however, insist that the government must go beyond accepting resignations to ensure proper investigations and public disclosure of findings to discourage future misconduct.
What Next for Nnaji and the Ministry?
The Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology plays a vital role in advancing Nigeria’s digital economy, research, and industrial innovation agenda. Stakeholders have urged the government to ensure that Nnaji’s replacement is “competent, transparent, and visionary.”
For Nnaji, analysts say the next few months will determine whether he can successfully clear his name and possibly return to public service in the future.
As Nigerians await further clarification, the development once again raises questions about vetting standards, political accountability, and public trust in the nation’s leadership selection process.
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