Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has pleaded not guilty to allegations of forging his university degree certificate and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate.
Nnaji was arraigned on Monday before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja after being charged by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The former minister is facing six counts bordering on alleged forgery of certificates from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the NYSC, which he reportedly submitted during his ministerial screening in 2023.
The charges also include allegations that he received about N29.5 million in salaries and emoluments under false pretences, as well as money laundering allegations.
Following his not guilty plea, the prosecution told the court it was ready to begin trial, adding that three witnesses were already available.
Nnaji’s lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, asked for more time to prepare for trial and informed the court of a pending bail application filed on July 9.
The prosecution did not oppose the request.
Justice Abdulmalik granted the former minister bail in the sum of N20 million with one surety who must not be below Grade Level 15 in the Federal Civil Service and must reside in Abuja.
The court also ordered Nnaji to deposit his official and personal passports as part of the bail conditions.
Comments
Add a comment