The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has filed an eight-count charge against former Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, over alleged violations of anti-corruption laws amounting to more than ₦2.2 billion. The arraignment is scheduled to take place today at the Gwarinpa Division of the Federal Capital Territory High Court.
According to the charge documents, the EFCC alleges that during his tenure as the supervising minister of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund between September 2015 and May 2023, Ngige used his position to confer undue advantage on several companies linked to his associates. The allegations include the approval and award of multiple consultancy, training and supply contracts valued at various sums, including ₦366 million to Cezimo Nigeria Limited, ₦583 million to Zitacom Nigeria Limited, and ₦362 million to Jeff & Xris Limited.
In another count, the prosecution alleges that four additional contracts worth over ₦668 million were influenced in favour of Olde English Consolidated Limited. Further allegations claim that four contracts totalling ₦161 million were awarded to Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited, whose owner was identified as an associate of the former minister.
The final counts accuse Ngige of receiving monetary benefits from contractors linked to the NSITF between May and June 2022. The sums include ₦38.6 million channelled through his campaign organisation, ₦55 million routed through his scholarship scheme, and ₦26.1 million allegedly received from another contractor. The EFCC maintains that the offences contravene sections 17(a) and 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
