This call follows the resignation of Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, who resigned after it was revealed by Premium Times that he had not completed his university education and that the bachelor’s degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate he presented during his ministerial vetting were forged. This incident elicited public outrage and intensified scrutiny over the vetting process for political appointees.
In his statement titled “Forgery as State Policy: Tinubu, His Cabinet, and the DSS Must Be Held Accountable,” Atiku characterized Nnaji’s departure as an effort to downplay what he described as a “national disgrace.” He criticized the Department of State Services (DSS) for its failure during the ministerial screening of Nnaji, suggesting that the agency’s lack of thoroughness contributed to this embarrassment.
Atiku asserted that Nnaji should have faced immediate dismissal and prosecution for deceit, rather than being allowed to resign quietly. He lambasted the administration of Tinubu, labeling it as one filled with individuals involved in forgery and lacking moral integrity. He drew a stark contrast between the fate of Nnaji and that of Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, who was screened out by the DSS due to “security concerns,” emphasizing the inconsistency in the agency’s operations.
Atiku’s critique extends beyond Nnaji, alleging a pervasive moral crisis within the Tinubu administration that reflects a longstanding pattern of deception starting from the presidency itself. He referenced the ongoing controversies regarding Tinubu’s identity and academic credentials, particularly noting the scandal associated with Chicago State University. He argued that the President’s struggles to validate his credentials have affected the integrity of governance in Nigeria, leading to a culture of dishonesty among his appointees.
Atiku called for an independent and transparent investigation into the qualifications of the entire Federal Executive Council, beginning with President Tinubu. He emphasized the necessity for the Nigerian populace to uncover the truths about those in power, asserting that the nation cannot progress while mired in moral decline and corruption. His statement concluded with a strong appeal for restoring integrity to public life in Nigeria and rescuing the country from deceitful governance.
