Former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Dr Chris Ngige, is set for arraignment on Friday as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) files an eight-count charge against him.
The commission accused him of awarding multi-billion-naira contracts to cronies and companies linked to him during his eight-year oversight of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).
The former Anambra State governor, who was arrested in Abuja on Wednesday night, has remained in EFCC custody ahead of his court appearance at the FCT High Court, Gwarinpa.
The charge dated October 31, and signed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Sylvanus Tahir alongside five other EFCC lawyers, alleges that Ngige abused his office between September 2015 and May 2023, using his influence as supervising minister of the NSITF to confer unfair advantage on selected associates.
Billions in Contracts Awarded to Companies Linked to Close Associates
According to the EFCC, Ngige allegedly orchestrated the award of at least 31 contracts to five companies — many of which investigators believe were either owned by his associates or operated on his behalf.
In Count One, Ngige is accused of funneling seven NSITF contracts worth N366.47 million to Cezimo Nigeria Limited, whose Managing Director, Ezebinwa Amarachukwu Charles, is believed to be closely connected to him. The contracts ranged from consultancy services to training and supply deals.
Similarly, Zitacom Nigeria Limited, also linked to Ezebinwa, reportedly secured eight contracts totalling N583.68 million, while Jeff & Xris Limited, managed by Nwosu Jideofor Chukwunwike, reportedly benefited from another eight contracts worth N362.04 million.
Two companies linked to another associate, Uzoma Igbonwa, also featured prominently. Olde English Consolidated Limited allegedly received four contracts valued at N668.13 million, while Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited reportedly got four additional deals worth N161.60 million.
EFCC investigators say the contracts covered consultancy, training, construction works and supplies routed through the NSITF over consecutive years.
The EFCC asserts that Ngige’s actions breach Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, which criminalises the abuse of office for personal or associate gain.
If convicted, the former minister faces substantial penalties, including possible imprisonment.
Ngige’s arrest on Wednesday followed what EFCC sources describe as “a widening investigation into procurement abuses within the NSITF” dating back to the Buhari administration where Ngige served as a powerful cabinet figure.
He was reportedly picked up at his Abuja residence and taken in for interrogation before being detained.
The anti-graft agency is expected to present its first set of evidence on Friday when the arraignment begins.
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