By Prof. Owo Chinweuba
In an era where misinformation spreads faster than truth, it becomes a moral duty to defend facts against political distortion. Recent attempts to question the academic integrity of Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, are not just unfounded — they represent a deliberate effort to malign a man whose educational and professional journey is verifiably authentic.
In a statement issued by Prof. Owo Chinweuba and shared with newsmen by Dr. Cynthia Agbo, it was reaffirmed that Chief Nnaji is indeed a bona fide graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). “As one who studied alongside Chief Uche Nnaji at UNN,” Prof. Chinweuba stated, “I can confirm that he duly completed his academic program and was duly cleared by the university senate for graduation.”
The professor emphasized that Chief Nnaji’s name was included in the official list forwarded by UNN to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for mobilization — a process that is governed by strict institutional procedures. “No candidate can be mobilized by the NYSC unless he has satisfied every graduation criterion,” he added.
To cast doubt on Chief Nnaji’s academic legitimacy, he argued, is tantamount to questioning the integrity of the University of Nigeria itself — an institution globally recognized for academic excellence and credibility.
Unfortunately, in the heat of political rivalry, character assassination has become a recurring strategy. Rather than engage in issue-based debates, some resort to falsehoods and smear campaigns to diminish the reputations of capable leaders. “This is not only unethical,” Prof. Chinweuba noted, “it is destructive to the values of democracy and decency.”
Chief Uche Nnaji’s life story — from his days as a disciplined student to his current position as a Federal Minister — reflects resilience, innovation, and patriotism. His contributions to national development and technological advancement are well-documented and remain beyond reproach.
The statement called on Nigerians to uphold truth over propaganda and resist the culture of misinformation for political gain. “Education is a sacred trust,” the professor concluded, “not a political bargaining chip. Chief Uche Nnaji remains a proud alumnus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Truth will always outlive falsehood.”
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