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By DocuNews Central Editorial Team
Published: October 7, 2025
Category: National News | Politics

Minister Uche Nnaji Faces Transcript Controversy

A major controversy has engulfed Nigeria’s political and academic landscape as Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, publicly pleaded with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) to release his academic transcript.

The request follows weeks of widespread allegations that the minister presented a fake degree certificate allegedly issued by UNN. Investigative reports, including those from Premium Times, Vanguard, and The Punch, have placed Nnaji at the center of one of the most talked-about political scandals of 2025.

The issue has sparked intense public debate, raising questions about academic integrity and the credibility of public office holders in Nigeria.

The Legal Battle for a Transcript

Court filings show that Chief Uche Nnaji approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to compel UNN to release his academic transcript. The case, reportedly marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025, sought two key orders:

  • That UNN should immediately release his full academic transcript.
  • That the university be restrained from tampering with or withholding his academic records.

However, the presiding judge refused to grant the ex-parte motion, citing procedural issues and a lack of sufficient grounds for urgent relief. According to Vanguard Newspaper, the court’s decision came after reviewing the minister’s plea and UNN’s internal reports about the controversy.

UNN’s Response: “We Did Not Issue That Certificate”

Officials from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka reportedly stated that the institution never issued the degree certificate claimed by Nnaji. According to Premium Times, UNN authorities confirmed that there was no record of Nnaji’s graduation in 1985, the year he claimed to have earned his Bachelor’s degree.

A letter from the Vice-Chancellor’s office, quoted in multiple news outlets, reportedly stated that Nnaji did not complete his program at the university and that his certificate number does not match any existing records.

Premium Times Investigation: Forgery Allegations

An extensive Premium Times investigation unearthed inconsistencies in the documents allegedly submitted by Nnaji. The newspaper claimed that the degree certificate and NYSC discharge certificate attributed to the minister were forged.

The report revealed discrepancies in academic results, course listings, and faculty signatures. As Premium Times noted, “the document in circulation did not originate from the University of Nigeria’s examination records, nor does it bear the authorized signatures of the Registrar or Vice-Chancellor during the 1985 academic session.”

Minister Nnaji Denies All Allegations

In response, Chief Uche Nnaji has vehemently denied all accusations of forgery. According to The Guardian and Leadership Newspapers, the minister insists that he graduated from UNN in 1985 and completed his National Youth Service Corps program as required by law.

Nnaji described the controversy as a politically motivated smear campaign orchestrated to tarnish his image and discredit the ministry. He also accused UNN officials of deliberately withholding his transcript to feed the media narrative of forgery.

“I have nothing to hide. My records speak for themselves. I am only asking the university to do the right thing by releasing my transcript so Nigerians can see the truth.”

Public Reactions and Growing Outrage

On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, thousands of Nigerians have expressed mixed reactions. While some sympathize with the minister and call for due process, others believe that the alleged forgery undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s education system.

Hashtags such as #UcheNnajiCertificateScandal and #UNNTranscriptSaga have trended nationwide, showing how deeply the issue has captured public attention.

Political Implications and Ethical Concerns

This scandal comes at a time when the Nigerian government has pledged to promote transparency and merit in public service. Analysts warn that if proven true, the case could further erode public trust in leadership.

“The integrity of any government is reflected in the honesty of its appointees. If allegations like this are swept under the carpet, it weakens citizens’ confidence in leadership.” — Dr. Chijioke Nwosu, governance expert, Punch Newspaper

Civil society groups have urged the Federal Government to launch an independent inquiry into the authenticity of academic credentials presented by ministers before appointment.

Court Ruling Strengthens Public Interest

When the Federal High Court refused to grant the minister’s injunction, it reinforced the public’s right to transparency. According to Sahara Reporters, the ruling ensures that UNN can present its findings without fear of legal obstruction.

Legal analysts applauded the court’s decision, saying it sets an important precedent in Nigeria’s battle against document forgery among public officeholders.

The Bigger Picture: A Lesson in Accountability

The Uche Nnaji case represents a defining moment for Nigeria’s educational and political systems. For decades, forged certificates have plagued Nigerian politics. However, this case is unique because it involves a serving minister in a key portfolio connected to science and technology—fields that depend heavily on credibility.

Media Coverage and Credible Reports

  • Premium Times – Investigation: “Minister’s Certificate Forged – UNN Disowns Document”
  • Vanguard Newspaper – “Court Declines Nnaji’s Bid to Stop UNN from Releasing Transcript”
  • Punch Newspaper – “Federal High Court Ruling Strengthens Transparency”
  • Leadership Newspaper – “Minister Denies Forgery Allegations”
  • Sahara Reporters – “Court Upholds Transparency in Nnaji’s Certificate Saga”
  • The Guardian – “Public Demands Probe of Minister’s Credentials”

What Happens Next?

As the controversy continues, all eyes remain on the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology. If UNN officially publishes its final report, it could either vindicate or implicate the minister.

Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Nigerian Institutions

The Uche Nnaji transcript saga should serve as a wake-up call for Nigerian universities, political leaders, and public agencies. Academic credibility is not just a personal achievement; it is a national value that underpins governance and accountability.

Whether Minister Nnaji’s records are genuine or not, the unfolding drama highlights the urgent need for digital academic verification systems and greater transparency in public service appointments.

Tags: #UcheNnaji #UNNTranscriptSaga #NigeriaPolitics #FakeCertificate #BreakingNews

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