A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has cleared former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, to contest the party’s governorship primary in Enugu State ahead of the 2027 election.
Nnaji was reportedly cleared during the faction’s governorship screening exercise held in Abuja on Thursday.
The screening committee was chaired by former Kaduna State governor and ex-national chairman of the PDP, Ahmed Makarfi.
Entrepreneur Samson Nnamani was also screened and cleared alongside Nnaji to participate in the forthcoming governorship primary election.
According to reports, Nnaji’s clearance comes despite ongoing controversy surrounding allegations of certificate forgery involving his academic qualifications and National Youth Service Corps documents.
The former minister had resigned from office in October 2025 shortly after reports about the alleged certificate scandal surfaced publicly.
The development has since generated reactions from some groups and political observers.
Reacting to the clearance, a civil society organisation identified as Defence for Democracy criticised the PDP faction for approving Nnaji’s participation in the race despite the unresolved allegations.
In a statement issued by its National President, Emeka Nwachukwu, the group warned that the decision could negatively affect the party’s chances in the Enugu governorship election.
“The people of Enugu State deserve leaders whose records can withstand public scrutiny without fear or controversy,” the group stated.
It further argued that unresolved allegations surrounding public figures should not be ignored while seeking higher political office.
“We therefore find it strange that people can move from controversy to ambition without addressing the questions hanging over their names,” the statement added.
The organisation also called on the national leadership of the PDP to intervene in the matter, insisting that the allegations raised serious moral concerns about integrity and public trust.
The group further advised Nnaji to clear his name publicly before continuing with his governorship ambition.
The development adds another layer of tension within the PDP as factions and political interests continue to shape alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
