Abuja – Former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, was on Friday arraigned before an Abuja High Court in Gwarinpa over allegations of N2.2 billion contract fraud.
Justice Maryam Hassan ordered that Ngige be remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the hearing of his bail application, scheduled for Monday, December 14.
Ngige pleaded not guilty to eight counts relating to abuse of office and acceptance of gifts from contractors of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund while he served as its supervising minister between September 2015 and May 2023.
EFCC counsel, Sylvanus Tahir (SAN), requested a trial date and urged the court to remand the former minister. He said, “In view of the not guilty plea entered by the defendant, we humbly apply for the trial date. We further pray my Lord that the accused person be remanded at the Kuje prison pending the commencement of the full trial.”
In response, Ngige’s lead counsel, Patrick Ikwueto (SAN), argued for bail on health grounds, noting that his client had been in EFCC custody for three days prior to the arraignment. He emphasized, “The defendant has taken his plea, and your lordship is now in full control of this trial. Even this morning, he mentioned how he needs to go to the hospital. The prosecution is asking for his remand, knowing fully well they don’t have the facility to cater to his health issues at Kuje.”
Ikwueto also challenged the EFCC’s assertion, noting the allegations were not comparable to terrorism or treason and urging the court to grant bail.
The prosecution countered, stressing that the alleged offences were significant and should not be downplayed. They also noted that Ngige failed to return his international passport after being allowed to travel for medical treatment in October.
The court adjourned the matter to December 14 and confirmed Ngige’s remand at Kuje Correctional Centre.
