UNN Suspends Official Over Fake Document Claiming Ex‑Minister Uche Nnaji Graduated

Enugu, Nigeria — The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has sanctioned a staff member for issuing a fraudulent academic document that falsely claimed that former Minister of Labour and Employment Uche Nnaji graduated from the institution.

The disciplinary action follows an internal probe by the university’s management after questions were raised about the authenticity of the certificate presented on behalf of the ex‑minister. A statement released by the school confirmed that the official has been suspended pending further investigation and will face administrative proceedings in line with university regulations. (premiumtimesng.com)

Discovery of the Fake Document

According to the university, the investigation began after the purported graduation document raised concerns among faculty and administrative staff due to discrepancies with institutional records.

Subsequent verification showed that Mr Uche Nnaji was never enrolled, much less graduated, from the programmes and sessions reflected in the disputed certificate.

Management said the incident has been treated with utmost seriousness, stressing that academic integrity and proper verification are core to the university’s mandate.

Sanction and Disciplinary Measures

The official involved has been placed on administrative suspension without pay, pending the outcome of formal disciplinary action.

A university communiqué said those found violating academic and administrative regulations will be made to face consequences aimed at preserving institutional credibility.

UNN spokesperson Mr Chukwuemeka Nnaji reiterated that the university will continue to uphold strict verification processes and collaborate with relevant authorities to prevent similar infractions.

Impact on Public Trust and Verification Practices

The incident has reignited conversations about the need for robust credential verification, especially for public office holders and their credentials.

Stakeholders in the education and governance sectors have called for nationwide adoption of digital verification systems to reduce reliance on easily forged paper documents.

Legal experts say presenting false academic credentials — especially for public service positions — could constitute fraud under Nigeria’s criminal laws, and may attract sanctions beyond institutional disciplinary measures.

Former Minister’s Response

Efforts to reach Uche Nnaji’s office for comment on the matter were not successful at the time of filing this report.

Observers say the development highlights gaps in personal credential verification that have broader implications for governance, public trust and accountability, especially in the public sector.