Why Ex-minster Uche Nnaji was arrested – ICPC
Former Minister Geoffrey Nnaji Arrested for Alleged Fraud
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed the arrest of Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, the former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation. Nnaji was detained on July 1, 2026, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja upon his return to Nigeria.
In a statement released Wednesday, J. Okor Odey, the head of Media and Public Communications for the ICPC, explained that Nnaji’s arrest was executed under a bench warrant issued by the Federal High Court of Nigeria. The commission coordinated with the Department of State Services (DSS) during the operation.
Prior to the arrest, the ICPC issued formal invitations to Nnaji regarding several investigative interviews. These invitations, referenced as ICPC/HC/CSTF/GUN/GBT/T.1/VOLV16 and dated May 15, 2026, were sent to his known addresses in Abuja and Enugu, as well as through electronic mail.
Despite the delivery of these invitations through multiple channels, Nnaji did not appear for the scheduled interviews, prompting the commission to pursue legal action. This action was authorized by the Federal High Court in Abuja under Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1160/2026, which was granted on June 11, 2026.
The court order specifically authorized the ICPC to arrest Nnaji to facilitate an investigation into allegations of forgery pertaining to his academic credentials, including a degree certificate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and a False National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Discharge Certificate, which he submitted during his ministerial screening in 2023.
Following his arrest, Nnaji has been taken into custody at the ICPC headquarters in Abuja, where investigations are ongoing. The commission has assured the public that it will proceed diligently in addressing the matter in accordance with legal protocols.