Uche Nnaji, parties seek out-of-court settlement in certificate case
Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Uche Nnaji and the parties in his lawsuit to block the release of his academic records are now exploring an out-of-court settlement. Nnaji filed the suit in October 2025 after allegations surfaced that he forged his university degree and NYSC discharge certificate. The case has not proceeded to a full hearing due to procedural issues, including service of process and pending preliminary objections.
At Monday’s proceedings, Nnaji’s counsel told the Federal High Court that a new development showed parties were discussing settlement and requested an adjournment to allow negotiations. Counsel for the Minister of Education, the National Universities Commission, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka said they were not aware of the development until that morning but did not oppose the request. The presiding judge, Justice Hauwa Yilwa, declined to hear a motion for regularisation but said it would be considered if settlement talks fail. She adjourned the matter to 8 July 2026.
Nnaji had sought prerogative writs to prevent tampering with his records, a mandamus to compel UNN to release his transcript, and an interim injunction to stop interference. UNN and its officials argue the court lacks jurisdiction over academic records, that the suit is premature, and that internal remedies were not exhausted.
Will the settlement talks succeed, or will the case proceed to a full hearing on July 8, potentially determining the fate of Nnaji’s reputation and raising questions about verification of officials’ credentials?