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13th July 2026
Former Minister of Science and Technology, Professor Barth Nnaji, has pleaded not guilty to allegations of certificate forgery brought against him before a Nigerian court.
Nnaji, who appeared in court alongside other defendants, denied all the charges when they were read to him. Following his plea, the trial judge granted him bail in the sum of ₦20 million, with conditions that include the provision of credible sureties as required by the court.
The case stems from allegations that documents purportedly linked to the former minister contained irregularities relating to academic credentials. Prosecutors contend that the accused presented or was connected to forged certificates, an allegation that forms the basis of the criminal charges before the court. However, Nnaji has firmly denied any wrongdoing, insisting that he is innocent of all the allegations.
During the proceedings, counsel to the defendant urged the court to grant bail, arguing that Nnaji is a respected public figure who poses no flight risk and would be available whenever required for trial. The prosecution did not oppose the application outright but requested that the court impose conditions capable of guaranteeing his appearance throughout the proceedings.
In its ruling, the court admitted the former minister to bail in the sum of ₦20 million, subject to the fulfilment of specified conditions. The judge also adjourned the matter to a later date for the commencement of trial, where both the prosecution and defence are expected to present evidence and call witnesses.
The case has attracted public attention due to Nnaji’s prominence in Nigeria’s public and private sectors. Apart from serving as a federal minister, he is widely known as an engineer, academic and entrepreneur with significant contributions to Nigeria’s power sector.
Legal analysts note that the former minister remains presumed innocent until proven guilty, as guaranteed under Nigeria’s Constitution. They stress that the court proceedings will determine whether the prosecution can establish the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.
The trial is expected to continue in the coming weeks as both parties prepare for substantive hearings.
