Abuja Court sends former Minister Ngige to Kuje prison over alleged ₦2.2bn contract fraud

Chris Ngige, the former labour minister, was presented before an Abuja High Court in Gwarinpa on Friday by the EFCC in connection with an alleged ₦2.2bn contract fraud.

Justice Maryam Hassan ruled to keep him in Kuje prison until his bail hearing set for December 14.

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Ngige pleaded not guilty to eight charges related to abuse of office and accepting gifts from contractors associated with the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund during his term from 2015 to 2023.

After his plea, EFCC attorney Sylvanus Tahir (SAN) requested a trial date and argued for Ngige’s detention until the proceedings commence.

Lead defense attorney Patrick Ikwueto (SAN) argued against the remand, seeking bail for Ngige on health grounds. He mentioned that Ngige had already spent three days in EFCC custody and emphasized that he is a notable public figure unlikely to flee. He contended that the charges do not equate to terrorism or treason, which shouldn’t warrant bail denial.

Ikwueto also pointed out that the defense had not been given adequate time to respond to the prosecution’s request. In response, the EFCC maintained that the alleged offenses were severe and carried potential sentences of at least five years in prison.

Additionally, the prosecution revealed that Ngige had not returned his passport following a medical trip in October. The court adjourned the case until December 14 and ordered Ngige to remain in Kuje prison.