In a dramatic turn of events, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Uche Nnaji as Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, bringing to a close weeks of mounting public pressure over allegations of certificate forgery.
The resignation marks a rare instance of official accountability amid what has been a politically volatile episode.
From Allegations to Exit
The saga began with investigative reports alleging that Nnaji presented forged credentials during his appointment—specifically, a degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate.
Subsequent clarifications from UNN—which stated that it could not confirm Nnaji’s stated graduation—and the NYSC’s outright disavowal of the documents intensified the controversy.
Amid widening public outcry, political pressure, and calls from civil society groups for a full investigation, the minister tendered his resignation, which was accepted by the president.
While details of when Nnaji formally stepped aside remain under wraps, insiders suggest that the move follows an internal reckoning and constitutional counsel.
Reactions: Relief, Skepticism, and Expectation
Opposition parties and advocacy groups have broadly welcomed the resignation—but insist it be more than a political fix.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC), in particular, had persistently demanded this outcome, arguing that retaining a minister with disputed credentials undermined the credibility of Tinubu’s administration.
Still, some remain cautious. Observers warn that acceptance of resignation must be accompanied by a transparent, independent probe. Otherwise, critics argue, the development may be reduced to mere optics: a departure without accountability. Legal experts echo this, stating the forgery allegations—if proven—could carry criminal implications.
Implications for Tinubu’s Presidency
This episode poses both risk and opportunity for the Tinubu administration. On one hand, the swift resignation could help contain reputational damage and signal responsiveness to public sentiment. On the other hand, questions linger:
* Will the administration pursue full forensic scrutiny of Nnaji’s academic and service records?
* How will this affect vetting processes for future ministerial nominees?
* Can this moment be leveraged to buttress Tinubu’s professed commitment to fighting corruption?
The precedent set here could either bolster or erode public confidence in the president’s leadership.
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Uche Nnaji’s resignation is a moment of accountability in a political era where such moves are rare. For Tinubu, the test now lies in converting this isolated course correction into structural reform.
Nigerians will be watching keenly, demanding that the next chapter of this story is one of clarity—not convenience.
