Enugu 2027: Nnaji clinches PDP ticket despite ongoing certificate forgery

Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji has emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for Enugu State in the 2027 elections, despite ongoing controversy over alleged certificate forgery.

Nnaji, aligned with the faction of the party loyal to Nyesom Wike, secured 7,424 votes to defeat his closest rival, Samson Nnamani, who polled 600 votes at the primary held in Enugu.

The exercise was overseen by the PDP governorship primary committee chaired by Austin Nwachukwu.

Nnaji’s emergence comes months after reports of an alleged academic and NYSC certificate forgery, which led to his resignation as minister in 2025 following investigations and public scrutiny.

Investigations reportedly linked to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission are still ongoing, alongside findings from an education ministry panel that allegedly questioned the authenticity of his credentials.

Despite the controversy, Nnaji, in his acceptance speech, promised to reduce hardship in Enugu State, accusing the current administration of excessive taxation on residents and businesses.

He also pledged to industrialise the state, create jobs, and reduce youth restiveness, while promising to serve only one term if elected governor.

The development has already sparked criticism from civil society groups questioning his clearance for the primary despite unresolved allegations surrounding his academic records.