Recall that Nnaji tendered his resignation on Monday following allegations of certificate forgery.
Uche Nnaji has revealed why he decided to resign as the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology.
According to him, his resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt regarding the certificate forgery scandal.
Nnaji tendered his resignation on Monday after a Premium Times investigation revealed that he did not complete his studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and that both the bachelor’s degree and NYSC certificate he presented to the Presidency, the Senate and security agencies were forged.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Enugu-born politician explained that his decision followed “deep reflection and consultations” with family, associates, and well-meaning Nigerians.
He said, “These unfounded allegations and media distortions have not only caused personal distress but have also begun to distract from the vital work of the ministry and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President.”
He emphasised that the resignation was a principled decision aimed at ensuring due process.
Nnaji said, “My decision to step aside is therefore a personal choice, not an admission of guilt, but rather a principled decision to respect the sanctity of due process and to preserve the integrity of the judicial proceedings currently before the court.”
The former minister maintained that he had spent over five decades building a reputation grounded in “hard work, honour and service to humanity.”
He further stated, “In the end, justice will prevail, and history will vindicate the just.”
Nnaji, who was appointed minister in August 2023, also thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve.
He added, “I remain deeply grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence he reposed in me and for the privilege to serve in his cabinet.
“His vision for a renewed, innovative, and technologically driven Nigeria is one I continue to hold dear, and I pledge my unflinching support to his administration and its transformative goals.”