Ngige Trial: Witness Details Presidential Directives in Corruption Case

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has continued the trial of former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, over allegations of abuse of office and fraudulent contract awards worth N2.26 billion involving the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). During the resumed proceedings before Justice M.A. Hassan of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, a witness testified about receiving directives from the presidency that may have influenced the actions of Ngige and the NSITF. According to Vanguard News, the witness, who was not identified, claimed that the directives were given during a meeting chaired by the President himself. This development adds a new dimension to the corruption case against Ngige, who has denied any wrongdoing. The trial is ongoing, with more witnesses expected to testify in the coming weeks.

The allegations against Ngige stem from contracts awarded by the NSITF between 2016 and 2018, during his tenure as minister. The EFCC alleges that the contracts were awarded improperly and that the funds were misappropriated. If found guilty, Ngige faces a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison and a fine equivalent to the amount misappropriated.