Peter Obi Commends Minister’s Resignation Over Certificate Scandal

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has commended the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, describing it as a “decent and honourable step” amid the controversy over alleged forged academic certificates.

Nnaji, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023, resigned earlier in the week after an investigation by Premium Times alleged that he submitted forged academic and NYSC certificates to the Senate during his ministerial nomination process.

Reacting to the development in a statement shared on his X handle on Thursday, Obi said the minister’s decision to resign demonstrated accountability and integrity in public office.

“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.

“These instances remind us that such matters are not trivial; they constitute serious criminal offences.”

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The former Anambra State governor urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant agencies to begin verifying the academic and professional qualifications of all political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He stressed that the process should cover all elective positions, from the presidency to local government councillors, noting that dishonesty and forgery must have no place in leadership.

“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,” Obi said.

“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.”

Obi decried the continued submission of false documents by politicians, describing it as a major threat to Nigeria’s democratic credibility.

“It is appalling that our electoral body carries out little or no due diligence in confirming certificates submitted by candidates,” he said.

“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.”

The former presidential candidate called for an urgent national review of the qualification and background verification process for all officeholders, insisting that both incumbents and aspiring candidates should make their academic documents publicly accessible.

“Let truth, transparency, and accountability form the foundation of leadership in our dear country,” Obi stated.

“Only then can we build a Nigeria where public service is anchored on honour, not deceit. We must get it right.”

Nnaji’s resignation followed mounting public pressure after the investigative report exposed alleged discrepancies in his educational credentials.

The minister’s exit has reignited public debate on the need for stricter vetting of political appointees and candidates in Nigeria.