Ex-Minister Uche Nnaji Not Arrested, Was Routine Invitation - SOURCE

Claims that former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, was arrested by security operatives at Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, are false, sources close to the ex-minister said, on Wednesday.

The clarification comes after several online platforms reported Wednesday morning that Nnaji had been picked up in Enugu, with others saying he was arrested in Abuja.

According to verified accounts, Nnaji was not intercepted or detained in Enugu. The incident occurred upon his arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where he was notified of a routine invitation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission for questioning.

Sources familiar with the matter stressed that the interaction is an administrative invitation, not a criminal arrest.

“An invitation by a regulatory or anti-graft agency is standard protocol, particularly for anyone who has held high-ranking public office,” one source said. “It is a routine administrative process. Just as the police can invite any citizen for a conversation or clarification, the ICPC frequently invites former public officers. It does not equate to a detention, an indictment, or an arrest.”

The sources added that Nnaji is complying with the inquiry. The clarification places the interaction in Abuja, not Enugu as widely circulated.

Allies of the former minister criticized the administration, alleging that the leak of the routine invitation was “highly synchronized” and aimed at creating “a climate of intimidation” against opposition figures and past officials. They described the reports as a “media trial triggered by political undertones.”

The ICPC had not issued an official statement on the matter as of press time.