The Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) has questioned former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, regarding irregularities surrounding contracts and job appointments at the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) during his term. The ICPC grills Ngige over NSITF contracts, probing his role in the controversial contract awards. This interrogation comes as part of a larger investigation into alleged job racketeering and mismanagement of public funds under his oversight.
Sources familiar with the situation revealed that Ngige faced the ICPC investigators for more than five hours, answering a series of questions. The former minister was particularly questioned about the e-NSITF project, an initiative approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) during his time in office. Despite claims of non-availability during earlier summons, Ngige eventually appeared on Wednesday and was released later that night.
Further investigations revolve around a disputed gratuity payment of N47 million made to the former Managing Director of the NSITF, Mrs. Maureen Allagoa, while she was still in active service. This irregularity has raised additional concerns about the financial management within the organization.
When asked about Ngige’s appearance before the commission, ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare confirmed the interrogation, stating that Ngige had been called in to clarify several issues related to contract awards and other allegations during his tenure. According to Bakare, “He was invited and interrogated on certain matters and was allowed to leave afterward.”
The investigation is part of the ICPC’s broader efforts to address corruption and ensure accountability within government agencies. The outcome of this investigation remains to be seen, but it adds to the growing list of scrutiny surrounding former officials involved in public service during recent years.
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