Former Labour Minister Chris Ngige attended the All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting on Thursday, just hours after securing bail in a fraud case. Viral videos showed Ngige arriving at the meeting venue following his release.
The Federal High Court in Abuja granted Ngige bail earlier that day. This relates to an ongoing ₦2.2 billion contract fraud investigation. The court approved his temporary freedom with specific conditions.
Bail Conditions Set
Justice Hassan imposed strict bail requirements. Ngige must provide a federal government Director as surety. This official must own property in Abuja. The court also ordered Ngige to surrender his travel documents.
The judge emphasized bail conditions must be reasonable. Judicial powers cannot be exercised arbitrarily. The trial was adjourned to January 28-29, 2026.
Fraud Charges Detailed
Ngige faces eight counts of abuse of office. The charges relate to his tenure overseeing Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). Prosecutors allege he accepted kickbacks from contractors.
The former minister allegedly influenced contract awards unfairly. This reportedly benefited associates during his term. Ngige pleaded not guilty during his arraignment last Friday.
EFCC Opposition
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission opposed Ngige’s bail. Their legal team urged the court to reject the application. Lead prosecutor Sylvanus Tahir, SAN, argued against the bail approval.
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