A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has ordered the remand of Chris Ngige, former minister of labour and productivity, in Kuje prison pending the hearing of his bail application.
Ngige was arraigned on Friday before Justice Maryam Hassan on an eight-count charge bordering on abuse of office, contract fraud and receiving gratification.
In the charge dated October 31, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleged that the former minister used his office to confer undue advantage on associates by approving multiple contracts to companies linked to him.
Alleged Fraud Involvement
According to the EFCC, between September 2015 and May 2023, while serving as supervising minister of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Ngige approved seven consultancy, training and supply contracts worth N366,470,920.68 for Cezimo Nigeria Limited.
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The company’s managing director, Ezebinwa Amarachukwu Charles, is described as an associate of the former minister.
The alleged offence contravenes section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
The charge sheet also lists several other companies said to have benefited from approvals under Ngige’s supervision.
Zitacom Nigeria Limited, also linked to Ezebinwa, allegedly received eight contracts valued at N583,682,686.
Jeff & Xris Limited, owned by Nwosu Jideofor Chukwunwike, reportedly secured eight contracts worth N362,043,163.16.
Olde English Consolidated Limited, led by Uzoma Igbonwa, was said to have been awarded four consultancy, training and construction contracts totalling N668,138,141.
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Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited, also linked to Igbonwa, allegedly received four contracts valued at N161,604,625.
The former Anambra governor is further accused of receiving N38,650,000 through the Chris Nwabueze Ngige Campaign Organisation from Cezimo Nigeria Limited, a contractor with the NSITF, and an additional N55,003,000 through his Senator (r) Chris Ngige Scholarship Scheme from Zitacom Nigeria Limited.
Ngige pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Prosecution counsel Sylvanus Tahir asked the court to remand the defendant in prison custody and fix a date for trial.
Ngige, Unwell, Applies For Bail
Defence counsel Patrick Ikwueto informed the court that a bail application had been filed but requested an interim oral bail application, saying his client, who has been in EFCC custody for three days, is unwell.
Tahir opposed the request, arguing that Ngige is a flight risk.
He said the defendant was granted administrative bail in October and permitted to travel abroad for medical treatment on the condition that he return his international passport upon arrival. According to him, Ngige has failed to submit the passport since returning to Nigeria on November 19.
In response, Ikwueto told the court that his client was robbed in London and lost his passport, documents and cash, returning home with a travel certificate. Tahir said he was unaware of any such notice.
Justice Hassan ordered Ngige’s remand in Kuje correctional centre and adjourned the bail hearing to Monday, November 15. She also directed that he be allowed access to medical care while in custody.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
