‘N2.14bn contract fraud’: Court remands Ngige in Kuje prison

Ngige in court

A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) high court has ordered the remand of Chris Ngige, former minister of labour and productivity, in Kuje prison, pending the determination of his bail application.

Ngige was arraigned on Friday before Maryam Hassan, presiding judge, on an eight-count charge bordering on misuse of office, contract fraud and receiving gratification.In the charge dated October 31, the commission alleged that the former minister used his position to confer undue advantage by awarding multiple contracts to associates and companies linked to him.The EFCC alleged that between September 2015 and May 2023, Ngige, while serving as supervising minister of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), approved seven contracts for consultancy, training and supply to Cezimo Nigeria Limited, valued at N366,470,920.68.

The company’s managing director, Ezebinwa Amarachukwu Charles, is described as an associate of the former minister.

The offence, according to the anti-graft agency, violates section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

The charge sheet also lists other companies that allegedly benefited from contracts approved under Ngige.

Zitacom Nigeria Limited, whose managing director (MD)/chief executive officer (CEO) is Ezebinwa, was said to have received eight contracts for supply, training and consultancy worth N583,682,686.

Jeff & Xris Limited, owned by Nwosu Jideofor Chukwunwike, allegedly secured eight contracts valued at N362,043,163.16.

Olde English Consolidated Limited, led by Uzoma Igbonwa, was listed as receiving four contracts for consultancy, training and construction totalling N668,138,141.

Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited, also linked to Igbonwa, allegedly received another four contracts worth N161,604,625.