Ngige’s N2.2bn Contract Fraud Trial: EFCC’s witness says NSTIF contractors fulfilled all conditions

A prosecution witness told the FCT High Court in Gwarinpa, Abuja, that Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) contractors met all conditions for contracts awarded by former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige. The former minister is on trial for alleged criminal conduct, including abuse of office and bribery related to these contracts.

Orwusoro Maduka, a former director of procurement in the ministry from 2019 to 2023, testified as the fourth prosecution witness. He stated that the contractors possessed required documents like their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration and tax clearances. Maduka confirmed that Olde English Consolidated Limited was recommended because it offered the lowest financial bid after a technical evaluation.

During cross-examination by Ngige's lawyer, Patrick Ikwueto, Maduka addressed the contract award processes and contractor compliance. He asserted that the Ministerial Tenders Board, of which he was a member, faced no external influence during bid evaluations. When questioned about whether contractors completed their work, Maduka stated it was outside his job purview to follow up.

The trial, brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), involves eight charges against Ngige, including receiving gratifications from NSITF contractors and favoring associates in contract awards. The EFCC alleges Ngige awarded contracts to companies and received bribes through his campaign organization. Ngige has denied all allegations and maintains he had presidential approval to award the NSITF contracts, a claim the EFCC is attempting to discredit.