ADC Slams Tinubu for Retaining Minister Accused of Certificate Forgery

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Tinubu for retaining the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Uche Nnaji, despite mounting allegations that the minister presented forged academic and NYSC certificates for his appointment.

In a statement signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said it was “not surprised” by Tinubu’s inaction, noting that the administration has shown a “consistent tolerance for corruption of all kinds.” The party expressed concern that such silence from the presidency sends a dangerous message about the government’s commitment to integrity and ethical leadership.

According to the statement, credible reports have revealed that both the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have officially disowned the certificates allegedly presented by the minister. Even more troubling, the ADC said, are court filings in which Nnaji reportedly admitted that UNN did not issue him any degree certificate.

ADC: APC Government ‘Accommodates Deceit’

The ADC accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of creating an environment where deceit and forgery are tolerated, citing what it described as a “long, public, and familiar record” of certificate-related controversies among government officials.

“This is not an isolated case,” Abdullahi stated. “The persistent stench of certificate forgery reflects a government that is foundationally comfortable with deceit and unbothered by basic ethical considerations.”

The party said the controversy surrounding Nnaji’s credentials was especially troubling, given that the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation is responsible for promoting research, integrity, and knowledge advancement. “To have such a ministry led by someone whose credentials are under serious question is a national disservice,” the statement read.

ADC Demands Suspension and Probe of Minister Nnaji

The ADC called for the immediate suspension of Minister Uche Nnaji pending an independent investigation into the allegations. If found guilty, the party said, he should be dismissed and prosecuted for forgery and perjury, offences it described as “criminal, not clerical.”

The statement emphasized that integrity must be the foundation of any credible government. “Nigerians cannot be expected to trust a government populated by individuals who have lied under oath about their qualifications,” the party added.

The ADC further lamented that Nigeria, a country filled with talented and qualified professionals, continues to overlook credible citizens in favour of questionable appointees. “This situation reflects not just poor judgment but a moral failure on the part of the administration,” the statement concluded.