A former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has commended the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, following controversies surrounding discrepancies in his academic certificates.
Nnaji, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023, resigned earlier this week after a Premium Times investigation alleged that he submitted forged academic and NYSC certificates to the Senate during his ministerial nomination process.
In a statement shared on his X account on Thursday, Obi described Nnaji’s decision as “a decent and honourable step,” noting that such actions reinforce accountability in public service.
“It is commendable that the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr. Uche Nnaji, has resigned following the controversy surrounding discrepancies in his academic certificates. That is a decent and honourable step,” Obi stated.
He emphasized that issues relating to forged certificates should not be treated lightly, as they constitute serious criminal offences capable of eroding public trust in governance.
The former Anambra State governor also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant agencies to begin verifying the academic and professional certificates of all political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“As a matter of urgency, this is the time for a comprehensive national review of the qualification and background verification process for all public office holders.
Other nations, like Ghana, have set an example by thoroughly cross-checking the educational claims and credentials of all candidates before elections. Nigeria must not do less,” he said.
Obi lamented that Nigeria’s electoral process still suffers from a lack of due diligence, stressing that continuous discrepancies, false declarations, and forged documents undermine the integrity of democracy.
He urged that all incumbent and aspiring political office holders should make their academic documents publicly accessible to promote transparency and restore trust in leadership.
“Let truth, transparency, and accountability form the foundation of leadership in our dear country. Only then can we build a Nigeria where public service is anchored on honour, not deceit. We must get it right,” Obi concluded.
