An FCT High Court sitting in Gwarinpa, Abuja, on Wednesday granted bail on liberal terms to former Minister of Labour and Employment, , who is standing trial over alleged money laundering and abuse of office involving about ₦2.2 billion.
Ngige was arraigned by the (EFCC) on an eight-count charge bordering on abuse of office, conspiracy and receiving unlawful financial benefits during his tenure as minister between 2015 and 2023. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
According to the prosecution, the alleged offences are linked to contracts and financial transactions involving the (NSITF), an agency under the supervision of the Ministry of Labour and Employment at the time. The EFCC alleged that the former minister abused his office to influence contract awards and benefited from proceeds traced to companies allegedly connected to his associates.
At the last hearing, Ngige was remanded at the after the court reserved ruling on his bail application. The anti-graft agency had opposed the application, arguing that the former minister posed a flight risk and had previously failed to fully comply with administrative bail conditions, including issues surrounding his international passport.
However, in granting bail, the held that the alleged offences are bailable and that the prosecution did not provide sufficient grounds to deny the defendant bail outright. The court consequently granted bail on liberal terms, while directing that Ngige must meet all conditions and appear for trial as scheduled.
Ngige’s defence team had urged the court to exercise its discretion in his favour, citing his age, health condition, and status as a former public official who voluntarily submitted himself to the court. They also maintained that the allegations remain unproven and that their client is prepared to defend himself fully in open court.
The case has been adjourned to a later date for the commencement of trial, as the EFCC prepares to present witnesses and documentary evidence in support of the charges. The outcome of the trial is expected to further test Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive, particularly in relation to alleged financial misconduct by senior public officials.