Police in Enugu State have interrogated Chukwunonye Okereke, a media consultant to former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Uche Nnaji, over alleged criminal defamation of former Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Oguejiofo Ujam. The questioning took place at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) on Monday, following a petition submitted by Ujam.
Background of Alleged Defamation
The controversy stems from Okereke’s appearance on Channels TV’s Politics Today in October 2025, where he defended Nnaji amid allegations that the former minister forged his UNN degree and NYSC certificates. Okereke claimed that Ujam and current Vice-Chancellor Simon Ortuanya were politically aligned with the PDP and suggested collusion to discredit Nnaji.
Petition by Former VC
In response, Ujam filed a petition with the police, stating that Okereke had deliberately dragged him into the public discourse, tarnishing his reputation. Ujam emphasized that he was acting UNN vice-chancellor on merit, appointed by President Bola Tinubu, and had no connection to the alleged certificate controversy discussed on the TV programme.
AI-Generated Defence
Okereke, however, denied any wrongdoing, claiming that the TV segment he appeared in had been AI-generated, and that he never personally made defamatory statements against Ujam. Despite his denial, police investigators are reportedly preparing to press criminal charges.
Political Context
The allegations carry broader political undertones. At the time of Nnaji’s ministerial confirmation, he was a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and had unsuccessfully contested the Enugu governorship. Governor Peter Mbah, initially in the PDP, had opposed Nnaji politically before defecting to the APC. Recently, Nnaji quietly moved to a PDP faction backed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and emerged as its 2027 gubernatorial candidate.
Findings on Nnaji’s Academic Records
Investigations into Nnaji’s academic records began in October 2023 after a news source revealed inconsistencies in the former minister’s UNN degree and NYSC certificates. The findings, confirmed by UNN’s vice-chancellor and registrar, indicated that Nnaji neither graduated nor received the claimed certificates. Following the publication, Nnaji resigned three days later, though critics have maintained that legal accountability remains pending.
Legal Proceedings and Future Charges
Police sources indicate that Okereke may be summoned again as part of preparations for formal charges, underscoring the seriousness of criminal defamation laws in Nigeria. The investigation continues to examine whether the media consultant’s statements, AI-generated or otherwise, were intended to mislead or harm the reputation of the former vice-chancellor.
Wider Implications
The unfolding legal developments occur against a backdrop of growing calls for accountability from public officeholders, with observers highlighting the broader implications for governance, electoral integrity, and public trust.
