From Victor Edozie, in Port Harcourt
A PortHarcourt- based human rights activist, Comrade Chetam Thiery Nwala, said the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Hon. Geoffrey Uche Nnaji following revelations surrounding his certificate scandal is a stark reminder of how deeply compromised and decayed Nigeria’s institutional integrity has become.
Nwala in a statement in Port Harcourt on Wednesday said the saga exposes the failure of Nigeria’s oversight systems and the inability of critical agencies like the Department of State Services (DSS) to conduct thorough background checks on individuals entrusted with public office saying that what should have been a straightforward verification process has once again turned into national embarrassment.
He said , Nnaji’s case reflects a broader pattern of compromise by institutions that are meant to uphold due diligence and accountability, nothing that Nigeria has reached a point where mediocrity and fraud thrive unchecked, while integrity is continually undermined by political interests and brought shame and ridicule to our nation.
He said, “It is particularly distressing that this issue mirrors the long-standing certificate controversy surrounding President Bola Tinubu — an episode that has yet to be credibly resolved. Nigeria cannot continue on a path where its leaders are perpetually entangled in allegations of academic fraud. This is a stain on our national identity and global reputation.
“I call on President Tinubu to immediately set up an independent investigative panel to examine this matter comprehensively. If found culpable, Hon. Nnaji and everyone involved must be arrested and prosecuted without delay. Furthermore, the National Assembly owes Nigerians an apology for failing in its constitutional duty to properly vet and screen ministerial nominees. Their clearance of Nnaji is a clear indictment of their diligence and integrity.
“As a country, we must begin to hold individuals accountable for their actions and inactions. Hon. Nnaji should be compelled to refund all salaries, allowances, and entitlements received during his tenure as Minister. Acts of fraud and deception in public service must not be tolerated.
“Nigeria cannot claim to be fighting corruption while allowing individuals to benefit from fraudulent activities without consequences. Our nation’s image is already severely battered internationally — and how we respond to this scandal will determine whether we are truly committed to rebuilding trust, integrity, and accountability in governance.”
