After spending six days in custody, the former Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, was granted bail on Thursday by a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Gwarinpa, Abuja. Dr. Ngige, who is currently navigating an eight-count corruption trial involving an alleged N2.2 billion contract fraud, was released under specific conditions set by trial Justice Maryam Hassan.
Justice Hassan’s ruling came despite a strong objection from the anti-graft agency. The EFCC’s legal team, led by Sylvanus Tahir, SAN, argued that the former minister had previously violated bail terms by failing to return his passport after a medical trip abroad in October. However, the defense, led by Patrick Ikwueto, SAN, explained that the passport had been stolen during a robbery in London—a claim the court considered while exercising its discretion to grant bail. Justice Hassan noted that bail conditions should be reasonable and not so stringent that they effectively act as a denial of the defendant’s rights.
The charges against Dr. Ngige date back to his tenure between 2015 and 2023. The EFCC alleges that he used his influential position as the supervising minister of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) to award lucrative contracts to companies linked to his associates. These firms include Cezimo Nigeria Limited, Zitacom Nigeria Limited, and Jeff & Xris Limited, among others. Reports gathered that the prosecution also accused him of receiving millions in kickbacks through his campaign organization and a scholarship scheme.
Dr. Ngige has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all counts. His legal team emphasized his long-standing service to the nation and argued that his failing health made continued detention at the Kuje Correctional Center unsuitable. With bail now secured, the focus shifts to the commencement of the full trial. The court has adjourned the case until January 28 and 29, 2026, when the legal arguments regarding the alleged N2.2 billion fraud will truly begin.
