Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has praised the resignation of Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, following allegations of certificate forgery and discrepancies in his academic credentials.
Nnaji, appointed by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023, stepped down earlier this week after a Premium Times investigation published on Saturday claimed he submitted falsified academic and National Youth Service Corps certificates to the Senate during his ministerial screening.
Describing the minister’s action as exemplary, Obi said the resignation demonstrates 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,” he stated in a message posted on his X account on Thursday.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that certificate forgery constitutes a grave criminal offence and should not be treated lightly.
“These instances remind us that such matters are not trivial; they constitute serious criminal offences,” he added.
Obi has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission and other relevant agencies to begin immediate verification of academic and professional credentials of all political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections. He insisted the process should cover every elective position, from the presidency down to local government councillors.
“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,” he said.
Drawing comparisons with neighbouring countries, Obi highlighted Ghana’s thorough approach to credential verification before elections, urging Nigeria to adopt similar standards.
“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 noted.
The politician expressed concern over what he described as inadequate due diligence by the electoral body in confirming certificates submitted by candidates.
“It is appalling that our electoral body carries out little or no due diligence in confirming certificates submitted by candidates. Continuous discrepancies, false declarations, and forged credentials undermine the credibility of our democracy. If we truly desire a free, fair, and credible 2027 election, the process of integrity must begin now,” he stated.
Obi further demanded that all current office holders and aspiring candidates make their academic documents available for public scrutiny, arguing that transparency in documentation would strengthen democratic institutions.
“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,” he concluded.
