Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, says that his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet is not an admission of guilt but a respect for due process.

Nnaji resigned following allegations of certificate forgery. An investigative report by PREMIUM TIMES had allegedly revealed that he did not complete his university education and that the bachelor’s degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate he submitted were forged.

The Enugu-born politician announced his resignation, stating it followed “deep reflection” and discussions with family and associates. He cited a “sustained campaign of falsehood and malicious attacks” against his character and integrity as the reason for his decision.

“These unfounded allegations and media distortions have not only caused personal distress but have also begun to distract from the vital work of the ministry and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” he said.

The former minister, who was appointed in August 2023, said he had spent over five decades building a reputation anchored on “hard work, honour and service to humanity.”

“My decision to step aside is therefore a personal choice — not an admission of guilt, but rather a principled decision to respect the sanctity of due process and to preserve the integrity of the judicial proceedings currently before the court,” he said.

“In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just.”

Nnaji expressed gratitude to Tinubu for the opportunity to serve in the federal cabinet.

“I remain deeply grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence he reposed in me and for the privilege to serve in his cabinet,” he said.