Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has dismissed as ‘false and misleading’ media reports which claimed that a court ordered his arrest in connection with the allegation of certificate forgery.

Nnaji said that the publication was part of a sustained media campaign aimed at tarnishing his reputation.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his spokesperson, Dr. Robert Ngwu, Nnaji maintained that he is neither in hiding nor under investigation by any law enforcement agency, insisting that neither he nor his legal team has received any invitation, summons, warrant, or correspondence from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The statement accused the Premium Times of attempting to subject the former minister to a “media trial” amid growing political interests surrounding his future aspirations.

It reads: “Statement on the Latest Premium Times Publication Concerning Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji

“Our attention has been drawn to yet another PREMIUM TIMES publication alleging that a court has ordered the arrest of former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji.

“We wish to state unequivocally that Chief Nnaji is not in hiding and has never evaded any law enforcement agency.

“As a former Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, his residence in Asokoro, Abuja, where he has lived for nearly two decades, is well known to public authorities. His residence in Independence Layout, Enugu, has likewise been publicly known since 1990. It is this long-standing visibility, accessibility, and connection to the people that earned him the name “Nwakaibie.”

“We further wish to make it abundantly clear that neither Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji nor his legal team, led by Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, has received any invitation, summons, warrant, or correspondence whatsoever from the ICPC. No such process has been served at his Abuja or Enugu residences, both of which have been publicly known for decades.

“It is equally important to remind the public that Chief Nnaji is already before the Federal High Court in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025 a case he personally filed to clear his name and obtain a judicial determination of issues relating to his academic records. Central to that case is his request for the release of his official academic transcript, a document every graduate is ordinarily entitled to obtain from his or her university. “

The statement further said that contrary to the narrative being promoted by the media, Chief Nnaji was not dragged before the courts, explaining that the former minister “voluntarily approached the judiciary as the Applicant/Plaintiff, seeking the preservation and release of his transcript and relevant records.“

“That matter remains pending before the court and has not been judicially determined,” it added, claiming that “the latest report must also be viewed within the context of a prolonged and extraordinary media focus on Chief Nnaji.”

The statement pointed out that when the media previously contacted Chief Nnaji’s representatives regarding an alleged ICPC “manhunt,” a response was promptly provided denying the claim and requesting supporting evidence.

“Chief Nnaji remains committed to due process, transparency, and the rule of law. He remains confident that facts, not sensational headlines will ultimately prevail. As our people say, “Ezi Okwu Ga-Apụta Ije” the truth will always come to light,” the statement further said.

The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who died while in the custody of bandits, describing the incident as a tragic loss to the state and the nation.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, and made available to journalists.

The government said the retired military officer died from complications arising from diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.

According to the statement, several efforts were made by the state government and security agencies to secure his release, but the attempts were unsuccessful.

The statement read, “The Katsina State Government, with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss, wishes to inform the general public of the tragic passing of Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in the bandits’ captivity. Despite the relentless and concerted efforts of the State Government and various Security Agencies to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy.

“The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.

“His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country.”

According to the statement, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda described the incident as a “dark moment,” adding that it underscored the urgent need for a stronger and more coordinated response to insecurity.

He extended condolences to the family of the late General and assured that the government remains committed to working with security agencies to combat banditry in the state.

“The Katsina State Government remains committed to working with the Federal Government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice. We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir rest in eternal peace”, the statement added.

The abductors of Rabe and his wife had last week demanded the release of three detained fighters and the return of livestock allegedly seized during security operations as conditions for the couple’s freedom.

Abubakar was abducted alongside his wife on May 30 while travelling through Katsina State.