Why EFCC is prosecuting Ngige

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, over alleged fraud and bribery totaling N2.2 billion, which the agency says occurred during his tenure as minister.

According to the EFCC, Ngige allegedly awarded contracts worth over N1.1 billion through the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) to companies linked to his associates, including Cezimo Nigeria Limited, Jeff & Xris Limited, Olde English Consolidated Limited, and Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited.

The contracts, the EFCC claims, were given preferentially to benefit these companies.

The anti-graft agency also accused Ngige of personally receiving more than N119 million in gratifications from contractors via his “Senator (Dr Chris Nwabueze Ngige) Campaign Organisation,” in violation of Sections 17 and 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

Ngige, who served as minister from 2015 to 2023 and previously as governor of Anambra State, pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The EFCC’s prosecution is aimed at holding him accountable for allegedly using his ministerial office to manipulate contract awards and enrich himself and his associates.

During Friday’s proceedings at an Abuja High Court, the EFCC requested Ngige’s remand pending trial, while his defence counsel argued for conditional bail.

Justice Maryam Hassan subsequently remanded Ngige in Kuje Correctional Centre and adjourned the bail hearing to Monday.