FRESH details have emerged on how operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stormed the Asokoro, Abuja residence of former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Dr Chris Ngige, arresting him while he was still in his pyjamas.
According to witnesses, Ngige — who was reportedly on administrative bail after honouring an earlier invitation by the Commission over undisclosed issues — was taken by surprise when about 20 EFCC operatives arrived at his home.
The officers, said to be from the Commission’s Wuse II Zonal Office, arrived at the property on Justice Mohammed Bello Road and entered the compound swiftly before whisking the former minister away without allowing him the opportunity to change clothes.
A family member said the former minister was “surprised and confused” as the officers escorted him out of the premises.
The source added: “He had maintained communication with investigators and complied with all directives, including the return of his travel documents.”
Trouble reportedly began during a medical trip Ngige attempted to undertake to the United States. While transiting through the United Kingdom, he allegedly lost his passport and was forced to abort the trip. He later secured emergency travel documents from the Nigerian High Commission in London to return home.
Upon his return to Abuja, Ngige drafted a letter to notify the EFCC of the lost passport and explain why he could not return the document as required. However, he had yet to submit the letter when EFCC operatives arrived and took him into custody.
Sources close to the former Anambra State governor said he expressed shock at his arrest, insisting he had not breached any bail conditions and had fully cooperated with investigators.
Meanwhile, a statement issued by Ngige’s former media aide, Sir Fred Chukwuelobe, indicated that the EFCC may arraign him today, where his legal team is expected to apply for bail as the case progresses.
