Understanding the political undercurrents behind Nnaji’s certificate controversy

As the political atmosphere in Nigeria thickens ahead of another electoral season, controversies are being stirred not by policy debates or governance performance, but by familiar attempts to discredit those perceived as political obstacles.

One of the latest targets was the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Geoffrey Nnaji. His academic credentials became the focus of intense public speculation. Yet, when the facts are weighed against the noise, it becomes evident that this was less about integrity and more about politics.

Contrary to the sensational headlines, there is substantial evidence supporting Nnaji’s academic history at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). A letter from the university’s Registrar, dated 21 December 2023, clearly confirmed that “Mr Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, registration number 1981/30725, was admitted in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry and graduated in July 1985 with a Bachelor of Science, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division.” This document was duly signed and officially issued by the Registrar’s office, the competent authority for academic records at UNN.

Beyond that, a copy of the 1985 convocation brochure and photo album, which include Nnaji’s name and image among the graduating class, further affirm his presence in that cohort. Several alumni of the department have also privately confirmed that he was indeed part of their class. These materials, when considered together, provide consistent and verifiable evidence of his academic completion.

The current uproar, therefore, raises uncomfortable questions about motive and timing. If UNN’s Registrar had already certified Nnaji’s academic completion before his ministerial clearance, why is the matter resurfacing now, nearly two years into his service as a Federal Minister? What explains the shift in tone from the same institution that once confirmed his status in writing?

null

Sources familiar with Enugu State’s political landscape suggest that this controversy may not have been purely academic. With the state’s political alignments shifting and power blocs repositioning ahead of 2027, those who view Nnaji as a potential rival appear determined to weaken his standing through orchestrated campaigns. It is not the first time Nigerian politics has weaponised institutions for convenience.

Throughout this entire period, Nnaji handled himself with calm. He sought clarification through lawful channels, presented evidence, including the 2023 Registrar’s letter and the convocation brochure, and did not resort to wild accusations himself.

Yesterday, under mounting public pressure and sustained allegations, Nnaji submitted his resignation as Minister. President Bola Tinubu accepted the letter. In his statement afterwards, Nnaji said his resignation was not an admission of guilt but a mark of respect for due process. He cited that the barrage of unverified claims, media distortions, and what he described as political blackmail had begun to distract from his work and from the government’s agenda.