A civil society organisation, Defence for Democracy, has called for the fielding of credible candidates in Enugu State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a press statement issued in Abuja yesterday, the organisation said that as candidates commence campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, Enugu State should have credible and competent candidates for elective positions.

“We believe firmly that Enugu deserves honest leadership, grassroots connection, and a leader who understands the pains of the people. There are many such people, and it is not too late. There is still time to do what is right so that the party will have the moral standing to campaign, but right now, it is being tied down,” the National President of the organisation, Dr. Emeka Nwachukwu, said, emphasising that personal ambition must not be allowed to override the public interest.

“We have said it before, and we want to say it again: politics and public office should be about the people. But what we see is desperation and personal ambition to the detriment of millions of PDP supporters,” he added.

“We have said leadership must be built on trust, integrity and credibility. The people of Enugu State deserve leaders whose records can withstand public scrutiny without fear or controversy.

“We believe firmly that Enugu deserves honest leadership, grassroots connection, and a leader who understands the pains of the people. There are many such people, and it is not too late. There is still time to do what is right so that the party would have the moral standing to campaign, but right now, it is being tied down.”

He spoke against the backdrop of the resumed trial of the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, on Monday at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The trial in the certificate forgery and corruption case involving the former minister was adjourned until September 21, 2026, by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Uche Nnaji, 63, served as a minister from August 2023 to October 2025 before resigning amid scrutiny over his credentials.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) prepared a six-count charge, including alleged forgery of a University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), degree certificate and an NYSC discharge certificate, abuse of office, and the unlawful collection of approximately N29.5 million in salaries.

Nnaji pleaded not guilty and was granted bail by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik in the sum of N20 million, with a strict requirement for a Grade Level 15 federal civil servant to stand as surety and for him to submit his travel documents.