Tech Minister Uche Nnaji Resigns Over Forgery Claims

The resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, marks a significant development in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet, following serious allegations of certificate forgery against the former Minister. The exit was confirmed by the Presidency earlier today.

Dependable NG reports that the Minister, who was appointed to his role in August 2023, tendered his resignation letter which was promptly accepted by President Tinubu. Bayo Onanuga, the President’s media aide, confirmed the development in a statement, noting the official acceptance of the Minister’s decision amidst the swirling allegations. In his resignation letter, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology expressed gratitude to the President for the opportunity to serve the nation but stated he has become a target of blackmail by political opponents. The Presidency confirmed that Mr. Nnaji resigned today, and President Tinubu, while thanking the Minister for his service, wished him well in his future endeavors.

The specific nature of the certificate forgery allegations remains a key point of public discussion, with the abrupt resignation suggesting a desire to contain the political fallout. The departure of a Minister barely a year into the administration over such an integrity issue highlights the ongoing scrutiny on public officials’ credentials and marks a notable reshuffle in the government’s efforts within the technology and science sectors. The former Minister, Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, has positioned himself as a victim of “political opponents” and “blackmail” in his resignation statement. However, the President’s quick acceptance of his resignation suggests a decisive move to protect the integrity of the administration from the serious nature of the alleged certificate forgery. The sudden vacuum in the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology is a major concern. The ministry is central to the country’s aspiration for a digital economy, and a delay in appointing a competent successor could impede critical technological and scientific development initiatives under President Tinubu’s reform agenda. This incident underscores the need for more rigorous screening of political appointees. The swift departure, while a loss to the cabinet, may serve as a powerful signal that the administration will not tolerate any cloud of suspicion regarding the qualifications and honesty of its key officials. The President will now face the decision of swiftly appointing a successor to fill the vacant cabinet position and maintain momentum in a sector critical to Nigeria’s economic development goals.