ABUJA, July 13, 2026 — Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge brought against him before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The arraignment marked the beginning of criminal proceedings, during which the charges were read and Chief Nnaji formally denied all six allegations, indicating that he intends to contest the case through the judicial process.
After hearing submissions from both the prosecution and the defence, the court granted the former minister bail in the sum of ₦20 million with one qualified surety, subject to conditions prescribed by the court. The matter was adjourned until September 21, 2026, for the commencement of trial.
Reacting after the proceedings through his legal team, Chief Nnaji expressed confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system and reaffirmed his commitment to respecting the rule of law.
According to his lawyers, he welcomes the opportunity to present his defence before the court and believes the evidence will establish his innocence.
The defence also explained that an arraignment is a constitutional procedure through which an accused person is informed of the charges against them and invited to enter a plea. It stressed that the process does not amount to a determination of guilt.
His legal team further noted that Nigerian law guarantees every defendant the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
The lawyers said Chief Nnaji will cooperate fully with the court throughout the proceedings while defending his integrity and reputation.
They added that he is determined to clear his name, describing his reputation as one built over decades of public and private service and one that reflects not only on him but also on his family, associates and those who have placed their confidence in him.
“The court is the proper forum for determining the truth of the allegations,” the legal team said, adding that Chief Nnaji expects a fair hearing and looks forward to presenting his case.
During the proceedings, the prosecution informed the court that it was ready to begin trial, while the defence indicated that it was not prepared for an immediate hearing following the arraignment. The court subsequently fixed September 21, 2026, as the trial date.
The bail conditions require Chief Nnaji to provide a ₦20 million bail bond with one qualified surety and satisfy other documentary requirements before the court registry.
With the arraignment concluded, the case now proceeds to trial, where the prosecution bears the burden of proving the allegations beyond reasonable doubt. Until the court delivers its judgment, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji remains presumed innocent under Nigerian law.
