Uche Nnaji: CSOs Allege Abuse of Power, Threaten Protest Against ICPC

A coalition of Nigerian civil society leaders and organizations has accused the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) of orchestrating a politically motivated campaign against former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji. The groups described his arrest and continued detention in a certificate forgery case as a "political witch-hunt" designed to thwart his political ambitions for the 2027 governorship election in Enugu State.

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It is painful that the ICPC, its Chairman and some online media platforms have become part of the actors acting out this funny script.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the coalition alleged that government officials are collaborating to sabotage Nnaji's political career. While they did not present documentary evidence at the briefing, they insisted that Nnaji's detention is driven by political motives rather than genuine anti-corruption concerns. They specifically criticized the ICPC, its chairman, and certain online media platforms for participating in what they termed a "funny script."

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As CSO groups, we have resolved to carry out thorough investigations and will shock the world with our findings.

The civil society groups further argued that the certificate forgery case is sub judice, as it is currently before a competent court. They condemned the ICPC's public statements regarding the matter, stating that such comments risk influencing judicial proceedings and violating Nnaji's right to a fair hearing. The coalition deemed Nnaji's continued detention unlawful and politically calculated, warning that their continued protests could escalate if the situation is not addressed.

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Based on the available facts, it is very clear that the arrest and continued detention of Chief Uche Nnaji by the ICPC is a pure case of biased political witch-hunt.