Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has praised the resignation of Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, calling it a respectable and honourable decision.
Nnaji stepped down from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet after controversies emerged over inconsistencies in his academic credentials.
In a post shared on 𝕏, Obi stated that with the 2027 general elections approaching, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant bodies must ensure strict verification and authentication of every candidate’s academic and professional certificates — from the presidency to local government levels.
He emphasized the need for a complete overhaul of the qualification and background verification system for public office holders, saying Nigeria can no longer overlook issues of integrity in leadership.
According to Obi, “The resignation of Mr. Uche Nnaji is commendable. It reflects decency and honour. We saw a similar act during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration when then Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, resigned over questions about her NYSC certificate. These are not minor issues; they touch the core of integrity and accountability in governance.”
He further noted that “as 2027 draws near, INEC must take the verification of certificates seriously. Leadership built on falsehood weakens our democracy. Other countries, like Ghana, verify the educational qualifications of all candidates before elections — Nigeria should not do less.”
Obi criticized the electoral body for its limited efforts in verifying documents submitted by candidates, stating that the prevalence of false declarations and forged credentials continues to erode public trust.
He urged INEC to begin immediate investigations into all past and pending cases of certificate forgery, adding that all candidates should publicly submit their academic records from primary to university levels for review.
“Truth and transparency must guide public service,” Obi said. “Only by upholding integrity can we rebuild Nigeria on the values of honour, accountability, and trust. It’s time to get it right.”
