By Chinedu Echianu
A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chris Ngige, at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the hearing of his bail application.
Justice Mariam Hassan issued the order on Friday after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned the former Anambra State governor on an eight-count charge bordering on corruption and abuse of office involving an alleged N2.2 billion.
The judge adjourned the matter to December 15 for hearing of the bail application.
Before the adjournment, EFCC’s prosecution team, led by counsel Tahir, urged the court to remand the defendant in the commission’s custody. However, Ngige’s counsel opposed the request, noting that the former minister had already spent three days in EFCC custody.
The defence further argued that Ngige was a well-known public figure who previously served as a minister until about a year and three months ago. They added that he was in poor health and needed medical attention, assuring the court that he would meet any bail conditions imposed.
Ngige arrived at the court premises around 8:10 a.m. in the company of EFCC officials.
According to the charge sheet marked FCT/HC/CR/726/2025, the offences were allegedly committed during his tenure as supervising minister of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) between September 2015 and May 2023, under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The prosecution alleged that Ngige used his position to confer undue advantage on several companies linked to his associates, including:
Cezimo Nigeria Limited – awarded seven NSITF consultancy, training, and supply contracts worth ₦366.47 million.
Zitacom Nigeria Limited – awarded eight contracts worth ₦583.68 million.
Jeff & Xris Limited – awarded eight contracts worth ₦362.04 million.
Olde English Consolidated Limited – awarded four contracts for consultancy, training, and construction valued at ₦668.14 million.
