Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has resigned amid a certificate forgery scandal. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed the resignation, stating that President Bola Tinubu has accepted Nnaji’s decision to step down.

The controversy surrounds allegations that Nnaji forged his Bachelor of Science degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate. UNN has disowned the degree certificate, claiming Nnaji didn’t complete his studies and wasn’t awarded a degree. The NYSC certificate is also suspected to be fake, with investigations revealing discrepancies in the signing Director-General and service duration.

Nnaji, appointed by President Tinubu in August 2023, cited “relentless blackmail” by political opponents as the reason for his resignation. President Tinubu thanked Nnaji for his service and wished him well in future endeavors.

The scandal has sparked widespread reactions, with many calling for accountability and transparency in public office. Nnaji’s resignation marks the second ministerial exit under President Tinubu’s administration due to controversy.