Nnaji, who served as the governorship candidate of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, was arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on a six-count charge.
According to the ICPC, the first two counts relate to the alleged misappropriation of funds during his tenure in public office, while counts three through six concern allegations of certificate forgery. The 63-year-old defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The former minister arrived at the court early on Monday, dressed in a white outfit and a red cap. He acknowledged supporters and attendees by raising his right hand as he entered the courtroom ahead of proceedings scheduled for 9:00 a.m.
The arraignment follows the conclusion of an ICPC investigation into allegations that Nnaji forged academic credentials and made false declarations during his nomination and screening for ministerial appointment.
The case originated from a petition questioning the authenticity of certificates allegedly submitted by Nnaji during the ministerial screening process.
In June, the ICPC secured a 14-day remand order after informing the court that Nnaji repeatedly failed to honour invitations for questioning despite receiving several notices. He later challenged the court's decision authorising his arrest, asking that the order be set aside.
Following the completion of its investigation, the anti-corruption agency filed criminal charges against the former minister at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Nnaji resigned as Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology on 8 October 2025 after an investigative report by PREMIUM TIMES alleged that he had used forged academic certificates to secure his ministerial appointment in 2023.
Despite the allegations, Nnaji has consistently denied any wrongdoing. The case is expected to continue as the court begins hearing evidence from both the prosecution and the defence.
.jfif)
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