Abuja: The Centre for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has decried the politically motivated attempt to tarnish the image of the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Nnaji. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nnaji resigned three days after allegations of certificate forgery were exposed by PREMIUM TIMES.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Patrick Ogheneyero, Executive Director of CPTA, stated on Thursday in Abuja that the allegations were part of efforts by political opponents to distract the minister from his duties. He emphasized that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) confirmed that the minister graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, Second Class (Lower Division) in December 2023.
Ogheneyero pointed out that the emergence of a contradictory letter in May 2025 was ‘questionable,’ especially considering the alleged political affiliations of certain individuals recently appointed to key positions at the university. He reminded stakeholders that the matter is currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice H.J. Yilwa has restrained UNN from altering the minister’s records pending the determination of the suit.
The CPTA reaffirmed its support for the minister, describing him as a committed public servant whose initiatives have contributed to repositioning the ministry in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Ogheneyero urged the media to verify information before publication to avoid misleading the public and to remain guided by truth, fairness, and accountability in reporting issues of national importance.
