Former Anambra State Governor and Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, made a surprise appearance at the All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting in Abuja on Thursday, just hours after regaining his freedom from Kuje Correctional Centre.
Ngige had been remanded in Kuje Prison over alleged corruption charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He was granted bail earlier in the day after fulfilling the conditions set by the court.
The former minister arrived at the State House Conference Centre shortly after President Tinubu had taken his seat for the caucus meeting. He was briefly held back by security operatives but was later cleared to join other party leaders.
Ngige is facing multiple charges related to alleged abuse of office during his tenure as Minister between 2015 and 2023.
The allegations include granting undue advantage to associates in the award of contracts and receiving gifts worth millions of naira through organisations allegedly linked to him while in office.
The trial has been adjourned to a later date for continuation.
Party sources said his appearance was seen as a show of commitment to the APC leadership and a signal of his intent to remain active in national politics despite ongoing legal battles.
