From Dr. Robert Ngwu
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, presided over by the Honourable Justice H. J. Yilwa, recently continued hearing in the matter instituted by Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, former Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, against the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and others.
At the 10th November 2025’s sitting, Chief Nnaji was represented by an eminent team of senior advocates, led by Chief Wole Olanipẹkun, SAN, and Professor Sebastine Hon, SAN, supported by other counsel on record.
The Court began by formally calling up the case and taking appearances for all parties. Preliminary matters were addressed, and the Court indicated its readiness to move into the main hearing at the next sitting so that all issues can be considered fully and fairly.
Following short submissions and procedural clarifications, the Honourable Court adjourned the matter to 14 January 2026 for full hearing.
It is important to clarify that this case was filed by Chief Nnaji himself. He is not a defendant, and the matter has nothing to do with forgery or any criminal allegation. Rather, it is an application seeking the Court’s protection against unlawful interference, tampering, and the spread of false information about his academic records by certain officials of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
According to the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Court’s earlier Order and Ruling, Justice Yilwa had already granted leave to Chief Nnaji to issue a prerogative writ of prohibition—a legal order that restrains the respondents from taking any further action or making publications about his records until the case is finally determined.
In summary:
• Chief Uche Nnaji is the Applicant, not the Defendant.
• The case is about protecting his rights and reputation, not a criminal allegation.
• The Court has already granted initial orders in his favour, recognizing the merit of his application.
Chief Nnaji remained calm and confident, reaffirming his faith in the Nigerian judiciary and its commitment to justice and fairness. His legal team also expressed confidence that the matter will be properly resolved in accordance with the law.
The day’s session ended in an atmosphere of professionalism and decorum, a reminder of the judiciary’s central role as the guardian of truth, fairness, and due process.
English