Peter Obi Commends Uche Nnaji for Resigning Over Certificate Forgery Allegations

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has commended the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, following allegations of certificate forgery and discrepancies in his academic qualifications.

Nnaji, appointed by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023, reportedly tendered his resignation earlier this week after an investigative report by Premium Times alleged that he submitted forged academic and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificates to the Senate during his ministerial screening.

Reacting to the development in a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, Obi described Nnaji’s resignation as “a decent and honourable step,” noting that it reflects accountability and integrity in public service.

“It is commendable that the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, has resigned following the controversy surrounding discrepancies in his academic certificates. That is a decent and honourable step,” Obi wrote.

He added that certificate falsification is not a trivial matter but a serious criminal offence that undermines the credibility of governance and leadership.

The former Anambra State governor called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant authorities to begin verifying the academic and professional credentials of all political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“As a matter of urgency, this is the time for a comprehensive national review of the qualification and background verification process for all public office holders,” Obi said.
“Other nations, like Ghana, have set an example by thoroughly cross-checking the educational claims and credentials of all candidates before elections. Nigeria must not do less.”

Obi expressed concern that the electoral body conducts little or no due diligence in confirming the authenticity of documents submitted by candidates, warning that continued tolerance of forged credentials erodes public trust and democratic integrity.

He further urged that all current and aspiring public office holders make their academic and professional records publicly accessible to promote transparency.

“Let truth, transparency, and accountability form the foundation of leadership in our dear country. Only then can we build a Nigeria where public service is anchored on honour, not deceit. We must get it right,” Obi concluded.