EFCC to Arraign Former Labour Minister Chris Ngige on ₦2.26bn Fraud Charges
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has concluded plans to arraign former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, today (Friday) before the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Gwarinpa Division, over alleged fraud amounting to ₦2,261,722,535.84.
According to court filings, Ngige faces eight counts bordering on abuse of office and acceptance of unlawful gifts from contractors of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) while serving as supervising minister between September 2015 and May 2023.
– Count One: Approval of seven NSITF consultancy, training, and supply contracts worth ₦366,470,920.68 in favour of Cezimo Nigeria Limited, linked to an associate.
– Count Two: Award of eight contracts valued at ₦583,682,686 to Zitacom Nigeria Limited, also linked to an associate.
– Count Three: Award of eight contracts worth ₦362,043,163.16 to Jeff & Xris Limited, associated with Nwosu Chukwunwike.
– Count Four: Influence of four contracts valued at ₦668,138,141 in favour of Olde English Consolidated Limited, linked to Uzoma Igbonwa.
– Count Five: Award of four contracts worth ₦161,604,625 to Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited, also linked to Uzoma Igbonwa.
– Counts Six to Eight: Alleged receipt of monetary gifts from NSITF contractors between May and June 2022, including:
– ₦38,650,000 from Cezimo Nigeria Limited via his campaign organisation.
– ₦55,003,000 from Zitacom Nigeria Limited via his scholarship scheme.
– ₦26,130,000 from Jeff & Xris Limited.
The EFCC asserts that the offences contravene Sections 17(a) and 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, and are punishable under the same provisions.
Ngige is expected to take his plea when the matter is called before the court today.
