Ex-Nigerian Minister reveals plans to settle alleged forged certificate case with tertiary institution...

A former Nigerian Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka on Monday told the Federal High Court in Abuja they were exploring an out-of-court settlement in a dispute over the release of his academic records.

Uche Nnaji had filed a suit before Justice Hauwa Yilwa seeking to stop the university from releasing his academic records following allegations of certificate forgery.

The allegations, which surfaced in a media report, led to his resignation as a minister in 2025.

At the resumed hearing, Nnaji’s lawyer, Ope Muritala, said the matter was slated for hearing of pending applications but noted a “new development” as parties were considering an amicable resolution. He asked for an adjournment to allow settlement talks.

Counsel to the Minister of Education and the National Universities Commission said they were unaware of the development but did not oppose the request.

Lawyer to UNN and its officials, Chidubem Ugwueze, confirmed that senior counsel had informed him of the settlement plan, adding that the defendants were not opposed but asked the court to consider their pending application if talks failed.

Justice Yilwa declined to hear the application and adjourned the case until July 8 for a report on settlement efforts.

Nnaji’s suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025, seeks an order compelling the university to release his academic transcript and restraining it from tampering with his records pending determination of the case.

The defendants had earlier challenged the suit, arguing the court lacked jurisdiction and that the application was filed outside the stipulated time under relevant laws.