EFCC Tenders Petition in Trial of Ex-Minister Ngige Over Alleged Contract Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented a petition in a corruption trial at the Abuja High Court involving former Minister of Labour, Chris Ngige. The witness, Pedro Chele, revealed alleged contract fraud at the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) during Ngige's tenure.

The EFCC accused Ngige of abuse of office, accepting gifts, and irregularities in contracts amounting to N2.2 billion. Chele testified about discrepancies in the contract award process, including a contract with Altitud Global Link Limited for the renovation of an NSITF office in Makurdi.

The witness detailed how the contract cost increased from N85 million to N120 million without due process. The defense argued against the admissibility of the petition, but the court accepted it as evidence.

Ngige's lawyer, Patrick Ikwueto, contested the allegations. Ngige was arraigned in December 2025 and released on bail with strict conditions.