Amanze Chinonye
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally arraigned former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Dr. Chris Ngige, on fresh allegations of mismanaging public funds totalling ₦2.2 billion.
The development marks a renewed push by the agency to scrutinise high-level procurement practices during the late President Buhari’s administration, Prime Business Africa reports.
Ngige, who served as labour minister from 2015 to 2023, appeared before Justice Mariam Hassan of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Gwarinpa, Abuja, where he faced an eight-count charge ranging from abuse of office to acceptance of improper financial benefits linked to the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), an agency he supervised throughout his tenure.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelDetails of the Allegations
Updated court filings (Charge No. FCT/HC/CR/726/2025) show that the EFCC is accusing Ngige of manipulating the award of NSITF contracts to companies allegedly linked to his political and personal associates. The affected firms include:
- Cezimo Nigeria Ltd
- Zitacom Nigeria Ltd
- Jeff & Xris Ltd
- Olde English Consolidated Ltd
- Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Ltd
Together, the companies reportedly received multiple consultancy, supply, training, and construction contracts valued at a combined ₦2.2 billion, a move the EFCC says contravenes Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act.
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Alleged “Corrupt Gifts”
The anti-graft agency also alleges that Ngige personally benefited from the firms during his ministerial tenure. Payments cited in the updated charge sheet include:
- ₦38.65 million channelled to his campaign organisation by Cezimo Nigeria Ltd
- ₦55 million sent to the Senator Chris Ngige Scholarship Scheme by Zitacom Nigeria Ltd
- ₦26.13 million transferred by Jeff & Xris Ltd to the same scholarship scheme
The EFCC maintains these payments amounted to corrupt inducements contrary to Sections 17(a) and 179(c) of the Act.
Ngige pleaded not guilty to all the allegations. Following his plea, Justice Hassan ordered his remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre ahead of his bail hearing now set for December 15, 2025.
The case has drawn heightened public and political interest, with analysts describing it as one of the most consequential corruption trials involving a former federal minister this year, especially given renewed scrutiny of NSITF operations and procurement processes across several ministries.
Prime Business Africa notes that the EFCC is expected to tender additional documentary evidence when the substantive trial begins, a move likely to shape national debate on corruption accountability within federal agencies.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
