Ex-Minister Nnaji, UNN Move Toward Out-of-Court Settlement in Certificate Forgery Dispute

Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Uche Nnaji and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka have agreed to explore an out-of-court settlement in their certificate forgery dispute. The Federal High Court in Abuja adjourned the case to July 8 for a report on the settlement talks.

Nnaji had filed suit before Justice Hauwa Yilwa seeking to prevent UNN from releasing his academic records following allegations that he forged his degree and NYSC certificates. The allegations led to his resignation as minister in 2025.

When the case came up Monday, Nnaji’s lawyer Ope Muritala told the court parties were exploring peaceful resolution. Lawyers for the Minister of Education and National Universities Commission said they were only hearing about the development in court but did not oppose the adjournment.

Chidubem Ugwueze, representing UNN, confirmed that lead counsel Chris Uche SAN had informed him of the settlement plan. He urged the court to hear their motion for regularisation if the talks fail.

An aide to Nnaji later countered reports that the former minister initiated the settlement, claiming UNN sought it instead. The dispute has drawn significant attention given Nnaji’s former position overseeing science and technology policy.

Sources: TheNigeriaLawyer, Daily News Nigeria, Nigerian CommunicationsWeek