The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has slammed former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Dr. Chris Ngige, with an eight-count charge over alleged contract fraud and abuse of office. He is expected to appear before an FCT High Court in Gwarimpa on Friday.
The charges, dated October 31 and signed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Sylvanus Tahir alongside five other EFCC lawyers, accuse Ngige of using his influence as minister to improperly award contracts through the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) to companies linked to his associates.
According to court filings, the offences reportedly took place between 2015 and 2023 while Ngige oversaw the NSITF. One of the firms mentioned, Cezimo Nigeria Limited, allegedly received seven contracts worth over N366 million for consultancy, training, and supplies. The EFCC claims the company’s chief executive is closely associated with the former minister.
Other firms listed in the charge include Zitacom Nigeria Limited, said to have secured eight contracts totalling more than N583 million; Jeff & Xris Limited, which allegedly received contracts worth N362 million; Olde English Consolidated Limited, linked to projects amounting to N668 million; and Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited, which allegedly got contracts valued at over N161 million.
Ngige was taken into EFCC custody on Wednesday night following his arrest in Abuja. The anti-graft agency is expected to present him before the court as investigations continue.
