Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has denied reports suggesting that he is evading law enforcement authorities following allegations that a court ordered his arrest.

In a statement issued on Monday by his spokesperson, Dr Robert Ngwu, Nnaji described the claims contained in a recent publication by Premium Times as inaccurate, insisting that he remains accessible to relevant authorities and has never gone into hiding.

“Chief Nnaji is not in hiding and has never evaded any law enforcement agency,” the statement said.

According to the spokesperson, the former minister has lived at his residence in Asokoro, Abuja, for nearly two decades, while his home in Independence Layout, Enugu, has been publicly known since 1990.

“As a former Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, his residence in Asokoro, Abuja, where he has lived for nearly two decades, is well known to public authorities,” the statement said, adding that his public visibility over the years earned him the nickname “Nwakaibie”.

Nnaji’s camp further maintained that neither the former minister nor his legal team, led by Wole Olanipekun (SAN), had received any invitation, summons, warrant or correspondence from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

“We further wish to make it abundantly clear that neither Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji nor his legal team has received any invitation, summons, warrant, or correspondence whatsoever from the ICPC,” the spokesperson stated.

The statement also drew attention to an ongoing case before the Federal High Court in Abuja, identified as Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025. According to Nnaji’s representatives, the former minister instituted the suit himself to seek judicial clarification regarding issues relating to his academic records and to obtain the release of his academic transcript.

“Contrary to the narrative being promoted, Chief Nnaji was not dragged before the courts. He voluntarily approached the judiciary as the Applicant and Plaintiff,” the statement said.

Ngwu noted that the matter remains pending before the court and has yet to be determined.

The spokesperson also alleged that the latest publication formed part of what he described as sustained media scrutiny directed at the former minister.

“Since October 2025, Premium Times has published numerous reports concerning his resignation, legal matters, political activities and governorship aspirations,” the statement claimed.

He further alleged that Nnaji’s representatives had previously responded to enquiries concerning reports of an alleged ICPC “manhunt” and requested evidence to substantiate the claims.

“Yet Premium Times misinformed readers that no response had been received,” the statement asserted.

Reaffirming Nnaji’s commitment to due process and the rule of law, the spokesperson expressed confidence that the ongoing judicial process would establish the facts surrounding the dispute.

“Chief Nnaji remains committed to due process, transparency and the rule of law. He remains confident that facts, not sensational headlines, will ultimately prevail. As our people say, ‘Ezi Okwu Ga-Apụta Ife’ – the truth will always come to light,” the statement said.

Ngwu also suggested that the controversy should be viewed within the context of the prevailing political environment, alleging attempts to pressure and discredit the former minister.

“No amount of media pressure, political intimidation, or orchestrated misinformation will deter, derail or discourage Chief Uche Nnaji,” he stated.

He appealed to members of the public to exercise restraint and allow the legal process to run its course.

“We therefore urge the public to remain calm, await verified facts, and allow the courts, not media headlines, to determine the issues before them,” the statement added.

The allegations and counterclaims remain matters of public interest, while the relevant proceedings continue before the Federal High Court in Abuja.