The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has cleared former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, to contest its Enugu State governorship primary ahead of the 2027 election.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that Nnaji was cleared during the faction’s governorship screening exercise held in Abuja on Thursday.
The screening committee was chaired by former Kaduna State Governor and former PDP national chairman, Ahmed Makarfi.
Apart from Nnaji, entrepreneur Samson Nnamani was also screened and cleared to participate in the forthcoming PDP governorship primary in Enugu State.
According to Premium Times, Nnaji’s clearance comes despite an alleged certificate forgery scandal involving his degree and National Youth Service Corps certificates.
The former minister resigned from office in October 2025, days after reports emerged on the controversy.
Group faults clearance
Reacting, a civil society organisation, Defence for Democracy, criticised the PDP faction for clearing Nnaji.
In a statement by its National President, Emeka Nwachukwu, the group said the party risked damaging its chances in the Enugu governorship election by clearing him.
“The people of Enugu State deserve leaders whose records can withstand public scrutiny without fear or controversy,” the group said.
It added, “We therefore find it strange that people can move from controversy to ambition without addressing the questions hanging over their names.”
The group urged the PDP national leadership to intervene, saying the allegation raised moral questions about integrity and public trust.
It also advised Nnaji to clear his name before pursuing his governorship ambition.