Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge bordering on alleged certificate forgery and related offences.
Nnaji was arraigned on Monday before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The charges allege that he forged a degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate, which he allegedly submitted during his ministerial screening in 2023.
He is also accused of obtaining about ₦29.5 million in salaries and emoluments under false pretences, alongside allegations of money laundering.
Following his plea, his counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Ogwu Onoja, informed the court that a motion seeking bail had already been filed.
Counsel to the prosecution said the prosecution was ready to proceed with the trial and had three witnesses lined up. He also did not oppose the bail application, leaving the decision to the court.
Justice Abdulmalik subsequently granted Nnaji bail in the sum of ₦20 million with one surety in like sum.
The court ruled that the surety must be a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 15 and must have maintained a fixed place of residence for at least four years.
The surety is also required to provide proof of employment, including a letter of appointment and salary slips covering the last three months.
The judge directed that the relevant authorities verify the surety’s employment status.
Nnaji was further ordered to surrender his international passport and other travel documents to the court.
The case was adjourned until September 21, 2026, for the commencement of trial.