Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has resigned from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, citing a sustained campaign of falsehood and malicious attacks against him. In a statement issued in Abuja, Mr. Nnaji emphasized that his decision to step down is a personal choice and not an admission of guilt.
Mr. Nnaji was appointed to the position in August 2023, but his tenure was marred by allegations of certificate forgery. Over the past week, he faced an intense barrage of criticism across various media platforms, which he described as orchestrated and politically motivated. These attacks, he said, caused him personal distress and distracted him from his work.
With a career spanning five decades, Mr. Nnaji noted that he has built a reputation founded on hard work, honor, and service to humanity. He expressed concern that the unfounded allegations and media distortions could tarnish the reputation of the present administration. To preserve the integrity of the judicial proceedings currently before the court, Mr. Nnaji chose to resign, stating that his decision is a principled one, respectful of due process.
Mr. Nnaji’s resignation comes amidst ongoing controversies surrounding his alleged involvement in certificate forgery. The minister expressed optimism that the justice system will ultimately vindicate him. His departure from the cabinet is likely to have implications for the administration’s innovation and technology agenda, which was a key aspect of his portfolio.
The development is being closely watched, as it raises questions about the impact of politically motivated attacks on public officials and the importance of upholding due process in the face of allegations. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the administration will address the vacuum created by Mr. Nnaji’s resignation and ensure continuity in the country’s innovation and technology sector.
