EFCC Opposes Chris Ngige's Bail Application Over Alleged N2.2bn Fraud

 Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opposed the bail application of former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, who was arraigned before Justice M.A. Hassan of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Gwarimpa Abuja, on Monday, December 15, 2025.

Ngige is facing an eight-count charge of corrupt practices, including abuse of office and receiving kickbacks from firms that were awarded contracts by the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). The EFCC alleges that Ngige awarded contracts worth over N2.2 billion to companies linked to him and his associates.

The prosecution counsel, Sylvanus Tahir, opposed Ngige's bail application, citing that he had violated the terms of his administrative bail by failing to return his international passport after traveling abroad for medical treatment. Tahir argued that Ngige is a flight risk and may interfere with witnesses if granted bail.

On the other hand, Ngige's defense counsel, Patrick Ikwueto, urged the court to grant bail to his client, citing health grounds and assuring that Ngige would not abscond or interfere with witnesses. Ikwueto argued that the charges are bailable and that Ngige has already spent