By; Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Nigeria’s EFCC Drags Former Labour Minister Ngige to Court on Contract Award Allegations
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally charged Nigeria’s former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chris Ngige, over claims that he abused his office in the award of multiple government contracts.
According to court documents filed before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Gwarimpa, Abuja, the former minister is expected to appear for arraignment on Friday.
The charge, dated October 31 and signed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Sylvanus Tahir alongside five other EFCC lawyers, outlines eight counts.
The EFCC alleges that during his tenure — particularly while overseeing the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) between 2015 and 2023 — Ngige used his influence to favour companies linked to close associates.
The anti-graft agency claims that several contracts for consultancy, training, and supplies were issued to firms believed to be connected to him.
One of the companies cited, Cezimo Nigeria Limited, reportedly received seven contracts worth ₦366.4 million. The commission says the company is tied to Ezebinwa Amarachukwu Charles, identified as an associate of the former minister.
Additional companies listed in the charge include Zitacom Nigeria Limited, Jeff & Xris Limited, Olde English Consolidated Limited, and Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited.
Collectively, the contracts awarded to these firms run into several hundreds of millions of naira, covering consultancy, supply, construction, and training projects under the NSITF.
The EFCC argues that the alleged actions violate Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
Chris Ngige, a two-time minister and former governor of Anambra State, has faced previous scrutiny from anti-corruption agencies.
In September 2024, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) questioned him over allegations involving job racketeering and contract approvals within agencies under the Labour Ministry.
His recent detention by the EFCC on December 11 also stirred brief speculation until his aide clarified that he was in lawful custody and not abducted, as earlier rumours suggested.
The new charges mark one of the most extensive corruption-related cases brought against a former minister in recent years. The arraignment on Friday will determine the next steps in what is likely to be a closely watched trial.
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