Minister Uche Nnaji Admits UNN Never Issued Degree — Court Papers, UNN Reply and Reactions
• By Editorial Desk
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has acknowledged in court filings that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) never issued him a degree certificate — a development that has amplified ongoing questions about the credentials of several public officials. The admission appeared in documents filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja as part of Mr. Nnaji’s legal action against UNN and other education authorities.
What the court documents say
According to affidavits and motions submitted to Justice Hauwa Yilwa, Mr. Nnaji stated that while he was admitted to UNN in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry and completed the course in 1985, he had not collected any graduation certificate from the institution. The minister’s legal filings were part of an attempt to restrain the university from releasing certain academic records, a bid the court subsequently refused.
UNN and investigative reports push back
The university has pushed back on the certificate being circulated in the public domain. In a formal response to media queries and a freedom-of-information request, UNN stated that although Mr. Nnaji was admitted in 1981, it has no record that he completed the programme or was issued the claimed degree — a point highlighted in investigative reporting that flagged inconsistencies around the minister’s documents.
Legal and political fallout
The controversy has triggered rapid political reactions. Some civil society groups and political opponents have called for the minister’s removal and prosecution if forgery is confirmed, while supporters describe parts of the campaign as politically motivated. Local media also report that several other ministers are under scrutiny for similar credential questions, intensifying calls for transparent vetting of public officeholders.
Court denies attempt to block records
A Federal High Court ruling rejected Mr. Nnaji’s application to prevent UNN from releasing his academic records. The court’s decision means the university may proceed with clarifying the official status of the documents under question, a step that legal analysts say will help determine whether criminal or administrative action is warranted.
Context: recurring credential controversies
Experts say this episode is part of a recurring pattern in which ministerial appointees have faced public scrutiny over academic and NYSC credentials. Investigative outlets have tracked multiple cases in recent years, prompting renewed debates about the appointment process, the role of background checks, and the need for stronger verification mechanisms before confirmation of nominee.
What comes next
With judicial doors open for the release of official records and the university’s statements in the public domain, attention will turn to any forensic verification of documents, possible referral to prosecuting authorities, and political responses from the presidency and the National Assembly. Observers say transparent handling and a clear legal process are essential to preserve public trust and rule of law.