Nigeria’s minister of innovation, science and technology, Uche Nnaji, resigned days after reports alleged he submitted forged academic and service credentials during his 2023 appointment under President Bola Tinubu. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed the resignation late Tuesday, quoting Nnaji as saying he had been targeted by political opponents.
Nnaji denied wrongdoing and maintained he graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) with a Microbiology/Biochemistry degree.
The Premium Times reported UNN had no record of him receiving a Bachelor of Science in 1985, saying he enrolled in 1981 but did not complete his studies. The National Youth Service Corps also said it could not verify the certificate Nnaji presented in April 2023.
Opposition leader Atiku Abubakar called for an independent probe, arguing Nnaji should have been dismissed and prosecuted if the allegations are proven.
Ministerial departures are uncommon in Nigeria: Nnaji is only the second to leave office since Tinubu took power in May 2023. In January, Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Minister Betta Edu was suspended over a separate controversy, which she denied. Under former President Muhammadu Buhari, just two ministers were fired in eight years.