A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) the authority to arrest and publicly declare wanted former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, over allegations of certificate forgery.
The ruling came following an ex parte application filed by the anti-graft agency under suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1160/2026. The ICPC argued that the former minister had repeatedly failed to respond to investigative invitations, necessitating enforcement action.
Allegations Linked to Academic and NYSC Certificates
Nnaji is under investigation for allegedly falsifying academic credentials and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge documents submitted during his 2023 ministerial screening. The court also issued a bench warrant authorizing ICPC operatives and other law enforcement agents to apprehend him for questioning and possible prosecution.
ICPC Intensifies Investigation Process
According to court filings, the commission stated that the warrant was essential to advance ongoing investigations into alleged forgery, abuse of office, and unlawful advantage during Nnaji's tenure in public service. The court further permitted the ICPC to declare him wanted across print, broadcast, and digital platforms until his arrest.
Background of Prolonged Scrutiny
The case follows months of scrutiny over Nnaji's credentials, including earlier investigative findings and public debate regarding their authenticity. He later resigned from his ministerial position after the allegations became public. The ICPC is expected to proceed with arraignment once the former minister is taken into custody.
