The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has filed an eight-count charge against former Minister of Labour, Productivity and ex-Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chris Ngige, paving the way for his arraignment on Friday at the FCT High Court, Gwarimpa, Abuja.
According to the charge dated 31 October and filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Sylvanus Tahir, alongside five other EFCC lawyers, Ngige is accused of leveraging his position as Minister and supervising minister of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), to confer undue advantage on associates and companies believed to be linked to him.
Details of the Allegations
In Count 1, the EFCC alleges that between September 2015 and May 2023, Ngige used his office to benefit Cezimo Nigeria Limited, a company whose Managing Director/CEO, Ezebinwa Amarachukwu Charles, is said to be his associate. The Commission claims the former minister approved seven contracts for consultancy, training, and supply—valued at N366,470,920.68—to the company through the NSITF. The act, the EFCC says, contravenes Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
The charge sheet further lists additional companies allegedly favoured under Ngige’s oversight:
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Zitacom Nigeria Limited – also linked to Ezebinwa Amarachukwu Charles, reportedly received eight contractsworth N583,682,686.00.
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Jeff & Xris Limited – whose MD/CEO is Nwosu Jideofor Chukwunwike, allegedly secured eight contractsvalued at N362,043,163.16.
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Olde English Consolidated Limited – led by Uzoma Igbonwa, is said to have obtained four contracts totaling N668,138,141.00.
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Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited – also linked to Igbonwa, allegedly received four contractsworth N161,604,625.00.
Arrest and Upcoming Arraignment
Ngige was reportedly arrested in Abuja on Wednesday night and has since remained in EFCC custody pending the court appearance. EFCC officials familiar with the matter confirmed that all necessary procedural steps for arraignment have been completed.
A senior EFCC officer, who spoke anonymously because the matter is now before the court, noted that Friday’s hearing will allow the public to see the full scope of the allegations and the court’s next steps, including bail considerations.
Reaction and Expected Proceedings
While Ngige’s legal team has yet to issue an official response, individuals close to the former minister suggest he intends to vigorously challenge the allegations.
Civil society groups and anti-corruption advocates have called for transparency as the trial begins, praising the EFCC for what they describe as a continuing effort to hold public officials accountable.
Ngige is expected to appear before Justice (name to be confirmed), at the FCT High Court, Gwarimpa, where he will formally take his plea.
