Why Nnaji Really Wants Enugu Governorship? New Claims Stir Political Debate

Multiple sources told Premium Times that Nnaji’s political ambition could be driven by an alleged effort to secure constitutional immunity from potential prosecution linked to the forgery allegations.

Nnaji, who stepped down as minister in October 2025, was recently announced as the governorship candidate of the Nyesom Wike–backed faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State ahead of the 2027 elections.

A two-year investigation published in October 2025 by Premium Times alleged that Nnaji submitted forged degree and NYSC certificates during his ministerial screening before President Bola Tinubu and the Senate. He resigned days after the report was made public.

The former minister, who previously contested the 2023 Enugu governorship election under the All Progressives Congress (APC), later moved quietly to the PDP.

He is currently under investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over the alleged certificate forgery. Reports indicate that the ICPC began probing the matter earlier, while an investigative panel reportedly set up by the Ministry of Education also concluded that the certificates in question were forged.

Sources within both the federal ministries and individuals close to Nnaji alleged that he is concerned about possible prosecution if the investigation leads to formal charges.

According to the sources, one of the motivations behind his governorship ambition is the constitutional immunity granted to sitting governors.

A source was quoted as saying that Nnaji believes securing the governorship would shield him from prosecution for the duration of his tenure, allowing time for political stability and possible re-election.

Under Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution, sitting presidents, vice presidents, governors, and deputy governors are granted immunity from civil and criminal prosecution while in office.

The section also restricts arrest and court proceedings against individuals occupying those positions during their tenure.

Further allegations suggest that both federal and state legal authorities are considering possible prosecution steps, including forwarding investigative findings to relevant prosecutorial offices.

There are also claims that past cases of Nigerian politicians benefiting from constitutional immunity after assuming office are influencing the current political dynamics surrounding the matter.

These references include previous instances where corruption or criminal investigations were paused or discontinued once individuals assumed governorship positions protected by immunity provisions.