Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has pleaded not guilty to allegations bordering on the forgery of his university degree certificate and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate.
Nnaji was arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja following charges filed against him by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The former minister is facing six counts relating to allegations that he forged a degree certificate purportedly issued by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and an NYSC discharge certificate submitted during his ministerial screening in 2023.
The charges also include allegations of receiving about ₦29.5 million in salaries and emoluments under false pretences, alongside money laundering-related accusations.
After he entered his not-guilty plea on Monday, the prosecutor told the court that the prosecution was ready to begin trial, adding that three witnesses were already present in court.
However, counsel to the defendant, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, requested more time to prepare for trial and informed the court that a bail application filed on July 9 was pending. The prosecution did not oppose the bail request.
In a brief ruling, Justice Abdulmalik granted Nnaji bail in the sum of ₦20 million with one surety, who must not be below Grade Level 15 in the Federal Civil Service and must be resident in Abuja.
The court also ordered Nnaji to deposit his official and personal passports as part of the bail conditions.
