The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission will today (Friday) arraign former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, before the Gwarinpa Division of the FCT High Court over alleged fraud totalling N2,261,722,535.84.
Court officials confirmed the scheduled hearing, with documents showing the ex-minister faces eight counts bordering on abuse of office and accepting gifts from NSITF contractors while serving as its supervising minister from September 2015 to May 2023.
According to the charges, the EFCC accused Ngige of using his position to award consultancy, training and supply contracts to companies linked to his associates, including Cezimo Nigeria Limited, Zitacom Nigeria Limited, Jeff & Xris Limited and Olde English Consolidated Limited.
The anti-graft agency also alleged that he received monetary gifts between May and June 2022 from NSITF contractors through his scholarship scheme and campaign organisation. Ngige is expected to enter his plea when proceedings begin today.