Abuja, Nigeria — In a dramatic turn of events, the former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, arrived at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Caucus meeting in Abuja on Friday evening. His appearance comes just 24 hours after the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court granted him bail following a six-day remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre.
President Bola Tinubu is currently presiding over the high-level gathering at the State House Conference Centre. Notably, this marks the first caucus meeting under the leadership of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who emerged as the APC National Chairman in July 2025.
The Chris Ngige EFCC Case: Details of the N2.2 Billion Trial
Despite his presence at the political gathering, the former Anambra State Governor faces a rigorous legal battle. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Ngige on an eight-count charge. Specifically, the agency alleges he abused his office and accepted gratifications totaling approximately N2.2 billion.
Key Allegations in the Chris Ngige EFCC Case:
- Contract Fraud: Alleged irregular award of multiple consultancy and construction contracts during his tenure as Minister.
- Gratification: Accusations of receiving over N93 million in “gifts” from contractors via organizations linked to him.
- NSITF Oversight: The EFCC claims these crimes occurred while he supervised the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) between 2015 and 2023.
Bail Conditions and Judicial Oversight
On Thursday, December 18, Justice Maryam Hassan granted Ngige bail, citing his health condition. However, the court imposed strict conditions to ensure his appearance for trial.
- Surety: He must provide a surety who is at least a Director in the Federal Civil Service.
- Property: The surety must own landed property within the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
- Travel Documents: Ngige must submit a new international passport, as he claimed his previous one was stolen in the United Kingdom.
Consequently, the court has fixed January 28 and 29, 2026, for the official commencement of the trial.
Political Significance of the APC National Caucus
The arrival of the embattled former minister at the State House has raised eyebrows among political analysts. Indeed, his participation in a meeting presided over by the President suggests he remains a significant figure within the party hierarchy despite his legal woes.
The caucus meeting also serves as a strategic platform for National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda. Ultimately, the party aims to consolidate its recent gains, including the recent defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other PDP leaders to the APC.
