Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has applauded the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, describing it as a commendable act of integrity and accountability amid controversy surrounding his academic credentials.
Nnaji, who was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in August 2023, stepped down earlier this week after an investigative report revealed inconsistencies in the academic and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificates he submitted during his ministerial screening. The investigation, published by Premium Times, alleged that the minister had presented forged documents to the Senate.
In a statement released through his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, Obi praised Nnaji’s decision to resign, calling it “a decent and honourable step.” He noted that such actions reinforce moral standards and credibility in public service.
“It is commendable that the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, has resigned following the controversy surrounding discrepancies in his academic certificates. That is a decent and honourable step.
“These instances remind us that such matters are not trivial; they constitute serious criminal offences,” Obi said.
The former governor of Anambra State urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant government institutions to begin thorough verification of academic and professional qualifications of all political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections. He emphasized that such verification should cut across all elective offices, from the presidency down to local government levels.
“As a matter of urgency, this is the time for a comprehensive national review of the qualification and background verification process for all public office holders.
“Other nations, like Ghana, have set an example by thoroughly cross-checking the educational claims and credentials of all candidates before elections. Nigeria must not do less.
“It is appalling that our electoral body carries out little or no due diligence in confirming certificates submitted by candidates. Continuous discrepancies, false declarations, and forged credentials undermine the credibility of our democracy. If we truly desire a free, fair, and credible 2027 election, the process of integrity must begin now,” he said.
Obi further recommended that every serving and aspiring public official make their educational and professional documents publicly accessible to promote transparency and rebuild public confidence in the nation’s leadership.
“Let truth, transparency, and accountability form the foundation of leadership in our dear country. Only then can we build a Nigeria where public service is anchored on honour, not deceit. We must get it right,” the statement concluded.
Okay News reports that Nnaji’s resignation has reignited conversations about ethical leadership and the need for institutional reforms to ensure due diligence in Nigeria’s political system. Many observers have described Obi’s reaction as a reminder that moral responsibility should remain the cornerstone of governance.
