The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed an eight-count charge against Chris Ngige, former Minister of Labour and Productivity, over alleged contract fraud.
Ngige is set to be arraigned on Friday, December 11, before a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) high court in Gwarimpa, Abuja.
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.
Earlier on Thursday, Fred Chukwuelobe, media aide to Ngige, dispelled rumours that the former minister was kidnapped.
Rather, he confirmed that the ex-governor of Anambra state was in the custody of the EFCC.
