Breaking: ICPC arraigns ex-minister Uche Nnaji

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on Monday arraigned former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of certificate forgery and misappropriation of public funds.

Nnaji appeared before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on a six-count charge filed by the anti-corruption agency. According to the commission, four of the counts relate to the alleged forgery of academic credentials and false declarations, while the remaining two concern the alleged misappropriation of funds during his tenure as a minister.

The former minister pleaded not guilty to all six charges when they were read in open court.

ICPC outlines allegations

The prosecution told the court that its investigation uncovered evidence suggesting that Nnaji presented academic credentials whose authenticity is being challenged. The commission also alleged that he made false declarations in connection with the documents submitted during his public service career.

In addition to the forgery-related allegations, the ICPC accused the former minister of misappropriating public funds while serving in office. The commission said the charges were filed after completing its investigation into the matter.

Investigation preceded arraignment

The case follows months of investigation by the anti-graft agency into allegations surrounding the certificates reportedly submitted by Nnaji during his nomination and screening for ministerial appointment.

Before filing the charges, the ICPC had taken legal steps during the investigation, including obtaining court orders connected with the probe after alleging that the former minister failed to honour repeated invitations for questioning.

The commission subsequently concluded its investigation and filed criminal charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Defence maintains innocence

Nnaji has denied all allegations against him and maintains that he committed no offence. His not-guilty plea means the prosecution will be required to present evidence to support each of the charges before the court.

His legal team is expected to challenge the allegations as the trial progresses.

Court proceedings to continue

Following the arraignment, the matter is expected to proceed in accordance with criminal procedure, with both the prosecution and defence preparing to present their cases.

The trial is expected to attract public attention given Nnaji’s previous role in government and the nature of the allegations before the court.

As proceedings continue, the court will determine the merits of the case based solely on the evidence presented by both parties. Until then, the former minister is presumed innocent unless proven guilty by the court.