ABUJA, July 13, 2026 — Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, on Monday pleaded not guilty to a six-count charge before the Federal High Court in Abuja, as criminal proceedings formally commenced against him.
The arraignment provided the court with the opportunity to read the charges to the defendant and receive his response. Chief Nnaji denied all six counts, indicating that he intends to challenge each allegation through the judicial process.
After listening to submissions from both the prosecution and the defence, the court admitted the former minister to bail in the sum of ₦20 million with one qualified surety. The bail is subject to conditions prescribed by the court, including documentary requirements to be fulfilled before the court registry.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter until September 21, 2026, when the trial is scheduled to begin.
Following the proceedings, Chief Nnaji, through his legal team, reiterated his confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system and affirmed his commitment to the rule of law throughout the case.
According to his lawyers, the former minister welcomes the opportunity to answer the allegations before the court and remains confident that the evidence to be presented during the trial will establish his innocence.
The defence emphasized that an arraignment is a constitutional requirement in criminal proceedings and should not be interpreted as proof of guilt. They explained that the process simply informs an accused person of the charges filed against them and allows them to enter a plea before the court.
The legal team further stated that the Constitution and the laws of Nigeria guarantee every defendant the presumption of innocence unless and until guilt is established by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Chief Nnaji, they added, will continue to cooperate with the court at every stage of the proceedings while defending both his integrity and his reputation against the allegations.
The defence maintained that the former minister is determined to clear his name, noting that his reputation has been built over decades of service in both the public and private sectors. They said his name represents not only his personal standing but also his family, professional associates and the many individuals who have placed their trust and confidence in him over the years.
“The court is the proper forum for determining the truth of the allegations,” the legal team said. “Chief Nnaji has full confidence that the judicial process will guarantee him a fair hearing, and he looks forward to presenting his defence and clearing his name.”
During the hearing, the prosecution informed the court that it was prepared to proceed with the trial. Counsel to the defence, however, indicated that they were not ready for an immediate hearing following the arraignment. After considering the positions of both parties, the court fixed September 21, 2026, for the commencement of trial.
As part of the bail conditions, Chief Nnaji is required to execute a ₦20 million bail bond with one qualified surety and comply with other documentary requirements directed by the court before perfecting his bail.
With the arraignment now concluded, the case moves into the trial stage, where the prosecution carries the legal responsibility of proving every allegation beyond reasonable doubt. The defence will have the opportunity to challenge the evidence presented and respond to each count before the court.
Until the Federal High Court reaches a final decision based on the evidence presented during the trial, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji remains presumed innocent under the Constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
