Justice Mariam Hassan of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has ordered the remand of former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, at the Kuje Correctional Centre following allegations of corruption. Ngige is set to remain in custody until Monday, December 15, when his bail application will be heard.
The former minister, who served under the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 to 2023, faces charges of conferring unfair advantages on associates through the award of various contracts while in office. Specifically, he is accused of awarding seven contracts valued at over ₦366 million to Cezimo Nigeria Limited, a company associated with him.
Ngige has been charged with eight counts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The EFCC also alleges that he corruptly accepted gifts worth millions of naira during his tenure.
During the court proceedings, Ngige’s lead counsel, Patrick Ikweato (SAN), requested that the former minister be granted bail on health grounds. However, the prosecution opposed this request, arguing that Ngige could pose a flight risk, and the court ruled to adjourn the bail hearing until Monday.
The charges against Ngige have drawn significant attention, raising questions about corruption in public office and the accountability of former government officials. The outcome of the upcoming bail hearing could further shape the narrative surrounding the case as it unfolds.
