Ex-Minister Uche Nnaji Arraigned for Forgery Charges

Uche Nnaji, the former Minister of Science and Technology, was arraigned on six counts of alleged forgery and money laundering by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) at the Federal High Court in Abuja on a date not specified. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik presided over the case, where Nnaji pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The prosecution, represented by Mr. Osuobeni Akponimisingha, sought permission to begin the trial and presented three witnesses. Nnaji's defense, led by Mr. Ogwu Onoja, requested time to study the charges and prepare for trial.

The court granted Nnaji bail in the sum of N20 million, with conditions that the sureties must be federal civil servants of at least grade level 15 and must deposit certain documents with the court. The charges against Nnaji include the alleged possession of N29.58 million from a bank account and the presentation of false educational certificates during his ministerial appointment process.

The case was adjourned until September 21 for trial commencement.