Geoffrey Nnaji, the now-former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, has come forward to explain why he abruptly stepped down from President Tinubu’s cabinet – and according to him, it has nothing to do with guilt.
In a strongly worded statement released shortly after his resignation was confirmed by the Presidency, Nnaji made it clear: his exit was not an admission of wrongdoing but a personal decision to defend his reputation and allow the administration stay focused.
“These attacks are politically motivated,” he said. “They’re meant to distract not just me, but the important work of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
“I’m Stepping Aside, Not Stepping Down in Defeat”
The resignation followed a week of intense scrutiny after allegations surfaced that Nnaji presented forged academic credentials during his screening process. The Enugu State Government reportedly questioned the authenticity of some of the documents he submitted.
But Nnaji insists the allegations are baseless; the result of an “orchestrated campaign of falsehood” driven by political enemies.
“This is about protecting my integrity, not running away,” he said. “I’m allowing due process to take its course because I believe justice will prevail.”
He also emphasised that the matter is already before the courts and that stepping away from his ministerial role will avoid influencing the process or dragging the Presidency into unnecessary controversy.
Nnaji, a seasoned technocrat with over five decades of experience, was appointed Minister in August 2023. His brief time in office focused on repositioning Nigeria’s science and tech space for innovation, digital infrastructure, and job creation.
However, recent media reports claimed irregularities in procurement practices within the ministry, alongside questions about his credentials – sparking what Nnaji described as a media trial.
There has also been a brewing political rift between him and some actors in his home state of Enugu, where sources allege the entire scandal is part of a long-running political vendetta.
Despite the turbulence, Nnaji ended his statement with appreciation to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and pledged his continued support for the administration.
“I am proud of the Renewed Hope vision,” he said. “It is for this very reason I chose to remove myself from any issue that could derail that vision. This is about service, not self.”
He also urged Nigerians to stay focused on the bigger picture, stating that history would be kind to those who stand on the side of truth.
