Premium Times says it will take legal action against Robert Ngwu, the spokesperson to former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, over a “false and defamatory” claim that the newspaper received a ₦100 million bribe.
Ngwu, speaking during an interview on Channels TV, alleged that the Enugu State Government paid Premium Times to publish its investigation into Nnaji’s alleged certificate forgery.
“Premium Times was allegedly paid ₦100 million to start this process,” Ngwu claimed before admitting he had no proof to support the allegation.
Pressed for evidence, he insisted the payment “allegedly” came from Enugu State but failed to provide any documents to back his statement.
In response, Premium Times’ Editor-in-Chief, Musikilu Mojeed, described the comment as “completely baseless,” stressing that the outlet’s reputation had been built on integrity and professionalism for nearly 15 years.
“We are not a newspaper that anyone can malign,” Mojeed said. “We have done major investigative stories, and no one has ever accused us of bribery. Not even Robert Ngwu or Uche Nnaji can destroy that.”
Mojeed confirmed that Premium Times’ lawyers are already reviewing Ngwu’s remarks and will seek redress in court.
“He will have to present evidence of how the money was given and received,” he added. “Mr Ngwu should be ready to meet us in court.”
The Enugu State Government has also denied any involvement, describing Ngwu’s claim as “completely false.”
“The Honourable Minister must carry his own cross and clear his name before Nigerians,” said Chukwuemeka Nebo, Director of Information, Ministry of Information and Communication.
The development follows Premium Times’ explosive investigation which found that Nnaji did not complete his university education and that the certificates he presented including his NYSC discharge were forged.
Nnaji resigned from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet on Tuesday amid the scandal.
