ICPC arrests ex-science minister Uche Nnaji over alleged certificate forgery
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arrested Uche Nnaji, former minister of science, technology and innovation, over allegations of certificate forgery.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, J. Okor Odey, ICPC’s head of media and public communications, said Nnaji was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja after arriving in the country.
The anti-graft agency said the arrest was carried out with the assistance of the Department of State Services (DSS) following the execution of a bench warrant issued by the federal high court.
According to Odey, Nnaji was subsequently transferred to its headquarters in Abuja, where investigations are continuing.
He said the commission had earlier invited the former minister for questioning through a letter dated May 15, 2026, which was delivered to his known addresses in Abuja and Enugu, as well as via his email.
Odey alleged that Nnaji failed to honour the invitation despite being served through multiple channels, prompting it to seek a court order for his arrest.
The federal high court in Abuja, in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1160/2026, granted the order on June 11, authorising the ICPC to arrest the former minister.
According to the ICPC spokesperson, the investigation centres on allegations that Nnaji forged academic credentials, including a degree certificate purportedly issued by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
The ICPC also alleged that the former minister submitted a false National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate during his ministerial screening in 2023.
“The Commission assures the public that the matter will be pursued diligently in accordance with the law,” the statement reads.
Odey did not disclose when the former minister would be arraigned or whether charges had been filed against him.
