The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally opposed the bail application of former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige. Ngige was arraigned before Justice M.A. Hassan at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Gwarimpa, Abuja, on charges of alleged corrupt practices and abuse of office. The case centers on accusations of receiving kickbacks from firms that secured contracts from the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).

The former minister faces an eight-count charge, with the EFCC alleging that he awarded contracts valued at over N2.2 billion to companies purportedly linked to him and his associates. This significant sum forms the crux of the financial impropriety allegations leveled against the former minister. The legal proceedings mark a critical juncture in the investigation into alleged illicit financial dealings during his tenure.

During the court proceedings, prosecution counsel Sylvanus Tahir presented arguments against granting Ngige bail. A key point of contention was the alleged violation of administrative bail terms, specifically Ngige’s failure to return his international passport following a trip abroad for medical treatment. This action, the prosecution contends, raises concerns about his potential flight risk.

Furthermore, Tahir articulated fears that if granted bail, Ngige might attempt to interfere with potential witnesses involved in the ongoing investigation. The prosecution emphasized that such interference could jeopardize the integrity of the judicial process and the collection of crucial evidence necessary for a fair trial. The EFCC seeks to prevent any actions that could obstruct justice.

In response, Ngige’s defense counsel, Patrick Ikwueto, implored the court to grant his client bail. Ikwueto cited Ngige’s deteriorating health as a primary reason for the bail request, suggesting that continued incarceration could exacerbate his medical conditions. The defense assured the court that Ngige would not abscond or tamper with any witnesses.

The defense team further argued that the charges brought against Ngige are, by legal standards, bailable offenses. They highlighted that their client has already spent a considerable amount of time cooperating with investigators and that his current situation warrants consideration for release pending the full adjudication of the case. The legal battle is set to continue as both sides present their arguments.

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Keywords: Chris Ngige bail, EFCC fraud case, N2.2bn NSITF contracts, former minister arraigned, corruption charges Nigeria, abuse of office allegations, Abuja High Court, economic crimes investigation