These, are not the best of times for former Anambra State Governor and immediate past Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned him over alleged contract fraud.
He was brought before a Federal Capital Territory High Court in Gwarimpa on Friday on an eight-count charge.
Ngige pleaded not guilty to all the allegations.
According to the charge dated October 31, the EFCC alleges that he abused his office by awarding multiple contracts to associates and companies linked to him.
For those who don’t know, the EFCC had arrested and detained Ngige. His former media aide, Fred Chukwulobe confirmed the arrest on Wednesday in a brief statement.
Chukwulobe said; “Former Governor of Anambra State and immediate past Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, is with the EFCC. More details later.”
The arrest comes just days after Ngige’s convoy was attacked in Anambra State, an incident during which a police officer was reportedly shot and several others injured.
Reports indicate that the former Governor was not in the vehicle at the time of the attack.