Author: The Nation

  • ‘2027 elections will be contested on records, ideas’

    ‘2027 elections will be contested on records, ideas’

    Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said it has observed with a mixture of amusement and concern, the growing desperation within the opposition, as Nigeria steadily counts down to 2027 general election.

    Spokesman Seye Oladejo said yesterday in a statesman in Ogba, Lagos: ‘’Stripped of ideas, credibility and public trust, the opposition have now resorted to an audacious and shameful demand for political immunity from scrutiny, accountability and consequence.

    ‘’Unable to defend their records in office or articulate a coherent alternative vision for Nigeria, opposition figures have chosen to cry persecution each time they are confronted with facts, interrogated by public opinion, or held to the same standards they once weaponised against others. They want power without responsibility, ambition without accountability and relevance without performance. That era is long gone.’’

    He said the desperation of the opposition had reached a point where it was evident that they were no longer just afraid of accountability, but also afraid of their own shadow.

    ‘’Haunted by their past actions and public records, they now seek political cover rather than public validation. This fear-driven posture explains the sustained attempt to blackmail the government into conferring an illegal and immoral immunity that has no place in a constitutional democracy.’’

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    The statement said: ‘’Let it be clearly stated that the government will neither be blackmailed nor ambushed into granting protection to political actors, who have not earned the trust of Nigerians. Immunity is not a campaign strategy, and persecution narratives will not erase documented failures.

    ‘’It is indeed ironic that individuals who supervised monumental failures, institutional decay, and the plunder of national assets now seek refuge in manufactured victimhood. The same voices that once applauded investigations, probes and sanctions have suddenly discovered ‘witch-hunts’ the moment the searchlight of accountability beams in their direction. This selective morality exposes not only hypocrisy, but also fear-fear of records, fear of memory and fear of Nigerians.

    ‘’Nigerians are not oblivious of the track record of those who now pretend to present an ‘alternative.’ The nation remembers where we are coming from and what it costs us to get here. Any so-called alternative that resembles a return to our vomit will be rejected by a discerning voter that has learned, sometimes painfully, from history.’’

    Oladejo noted: ‘’As 2027 approaches, Nigerians are no longer interested in emotional blackmail, recycled faces, or political fugitives shopping for platforms that offer protection rather than progress. Democracy does not confer immunity from public interrogation, and opposition status does not translate to sainthood. Those aspiring to lead must first submit themselves to the court of public conscience.

    ‘’The APC-led government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains focused on the serious business of national renewal-economic stabilisation, security reform, institutional rebuilding, and the repositioning of Nigeria for sustainable growth. While the opposition demands immunity from questions, this administration demands results from itself and accountability from all.

    ‘’Let it be clearly stated: Nigeria will not mortgage its future to political actors whose primary campaign message is fear of scrutiny. The 2027 elections will be contested on records, ideas, courage and capacity-not on entitlement to immunity.

    ‘’History is watching. Nigerians are alert. No amount of manufactured outrage will shield failure from judgment.’’

  • Religious tolerance won’t be compromised, says Olubadan

    Religious tolerance won’t be compromised, says Olubadan

    Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has said the current religious tolerance and freedom of worship in the ancient city would be sustained.

    He said he would ensure a situation where adherents were allowed to practise their religions without fear of molestation, intimidation and persecution.

    He spoke yesterday when the worshippers of Egungun Eleriko visited him at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, according to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Chief Ayoade Olugbemiga.

    The monarch said: “I welcome you to Olubadan Palace like other religious practitioners as a father of all religions.

    READ ALSO: The death of local government

    “I need your prayers for the success of my reign, to sustain me, promote peaceful co-existence, rapid economic recovery and security of life and property in Ibadanland.”

    The leader of Eleriko Masquerader, Iyalode Atiba, said it had been their practice from time immemorial to pray and support any Olubadan on the throne.

    She promised to back Oba Ladoja , saying the reign of the paramount ruler would witness peace, religious harmony, protection of residents and economic prosperity in Ibadanland.

    Present at the event were Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Adeyeri, Oba Salawudeen Ajibade, Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Dauda Azeez, Ashipa Balogun of Ibadanland, masquerade leaders and followers.

  • PDP, APC trade words over Aiyedatiwa’s tour

    PDP, APC trade words over Aiyedatiwa’s tour

    The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State yesterday engaged in a war of words over Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s ongoing statewide thank-you tour.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa had begun a statewide tour of local governments to thank the people at the grassroots.

    The governor yesterday began the tour with the four Akoko local government areas, namely Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Akoko South-East and Akoko South-West, where he thanked residents for their support this year and galvanised backing for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

    But the PDP faulted the exercise, arguing that after two years in office, the governor should be inaugurating projects rather than touring communities.

    READ ALSO: Insecurity: Why are we defeated?

    In a statement by its Director of Media and Public Communications, Wande Ajayi, PDP described the tour as a distraction from governance.

    Reacting, APC dismissed PDP’s claims as misleading and politically-motivated.

    In a statement by its Director of Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, the ruling party described the thank-you tour as a legitimate democratic engagement.

  • Ekiti APC Elders’ Forum hails Oyebanji

    Ekiti APC Elders’ Forum hails Oyebanji

    A group, Ekiti APC Elders’ Forum, has congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji on the inauguration of the first Agro-Allied and Commercial International Airport in Ado-Ekiti. 

    In a statement yesterday signed by the Chairman, Gabriel Oni and Secretary, Chief Odetola Babatunde, the body said:’’On behalf of Ekiti State APC Elders’ Forum, we congratulate Governor Oyebanji on the historic inauguration of the first Agro-Allied and Commercial International Airport in Ado-Ekiti.

    ‘’This landmark achievement stands as a shining testament to the power of continuity in governance, a principle that has become the backbone of Ekiti’s steady development.

    We proudly acknowledge and deeply appreciate the vision of former governors, Olusegun Oni, an engineer, who first conceived this noble idea, and Dr. Kayode Fayemi, whose steadfast commitment as the continuity governor advanced the project significantly. Today, Your Excellency has demonstrated uncommon leadership by completing and delivering this monumental infrastructure to the people of Ekiti State and to Nigeria at large.

    ‘’We wish to place on record our profound appreciation to the Federal Government for its invaluable support throughout the course of this project. In particular, we extend our sincere gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose visionary leadership and encouragement played a crucial role in ensuring the successful completion of this endeavour.

    ‘’Governor Oyebanji’s administration continues to win the admiration of citizens across the state and beyond, owing to its people-centred policies, visible development strides and his unwavering humility in leadership. From agricultural advancement to youth empowerment, from infrastructure to social welfare, Your Excellency has remained the cynosure of Ekiti people and a shining example of responsible governance across the nation.

    READ ALSO: The death of local government

    ‘’As we approach the Christmas and New Year celebrations, we extend to Your Excellency warm compliments of the season. May this festive period bring you renewed strength, divine wisdom and greater accomplishments in service to our dear state.

    ‘’We also offer fervent prayers for your life, health and continued success. Ekiti State APC Elders’ Forum deeply appreciates the care, respect and regard Your Excellency has consistently shown toward our members.

    ‘’We pray that God Almighty grants you long life, abundant grace and the honour of attaining a fulfilled and elderly age in continued service to humanity.

    ‘’Once again, congratulations on this historic milestone for Ekiti State.’’

  • Lawmaker mobilises youths for Tinubu’s re-election

    Lawmaker mobilises youths for Tinubu’s re-election

    The lawmaker representing Alimosho Federal Constituency, Ganiyu Ayuba, has urged youths not to relent in their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is expected to seek re-election in 2027.

    He gave the advice yesterday while declaring open a five-day basic computer skill, literacy and empowerment programme in Ikotun, Lagos.

    The lawmaker said President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritised youth empowerment, employment and innovation.

    He said it was unfortunate that youths were unaware of the meaning of his logo and the symbol on his caps.

    Ayuba said: “The broken chain symbolises someone working to build a country where no one is enslaved and a society where no one is oppressed.

    “Many of you don’t know that Tinubu has been struggling to build a nation where no one is in chains and where citizens can live meaningful lives. The progress we enjoy in Lagos today is traceable to his diligence and hard work.

    READ ALSO: Insecurity: Why are we defeated?

    “As a product of that political school and the representative of this constituency, no one should expect me to do less. That was why, during the preparation of this year’s budget, I ensured the inclusion of training for Alimosho youths in basic computer skills and information and communication technology (ICT).

    “There are many opportunities online that can turn our youths into entrepreneurs who can work from their homes and earn millions of naira. This is what this training is all about. After the programme, participants will be able to do many things, using their Android phones.”

    He advised youths to key into President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he described as historic. He recalled that there was hope in 1993, but it was dashed.

    “They have no choice. As the future leaders of this country, it is in the interest of youths to support Tinubu’s progressive agenda,” he said.

    He claimed that many youths were misled into supporting Peter Obi’s presidential bid during the last general election.

    “They were deceived, misdirected and disoriented. But with the benefit of hindsight, they now have no choice but to embrace the Renewed Hope Agenda. Many of them have taken advantage of the ongoing continuous voter registration exercise to ensure they vote for Tinubu and all APC candidates in 2027,” Ayuba said.

    He said the current training was one of several empowerment programmes designed for the people of Alimosho Federal Constituency.

    Addressing the participants, he said: “This is your turning point. Embrace this ICT training with focus, discipline and creativity. Learn, innovate and transform your skills into businesses, jobs and meaningful contributions to the society.”

    One of the organisers of the programme, Bola Afolabi, the Women’s President of Alimosho Federal Constituency, said she was impressed by Ayuba’s efforts in poverty alleviation among youths, women and other vulnerable groups in the society.

    She noted that today’s youths are more privileged than their counterparts in previous generations.

    Afolabi disclosed that 200 beneficiaries had already registered for the programme, saying more participants were expected on the second day.

    “Federal Government sponsored this programme in conjunction with the Centre for Management Development (CMD). After the training, beneficiaries will be provided with start-up kits to enable them put into practice the skills acquired during the programme,” she said.

  • Okpebholo vows to pay AAU salary arrears, gratuities

    Okpebholo vows to pay AAU salary arrears, gratuities

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has promised to pay salary arrears and gratuities of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma workers.

    He said comments from the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Eunice Omonzejie, indicated that the institution was on life support.

    The governor spoke in Benin City when the VC and members of her management team visited him at the Government House.

    He said the institution’s challenges were inherited from past administrations.

    Okpebholo described the non-payment of salary for years as unfair and unacceptable.

    He hoped the needs of AAU would be captured in the budget proposal.

    The governor said: “From what you have outlined today, it is clear that Ambrose Alli University was on life support. I must commend the progress you have recorded so far since assuming office.

    “I’m impressed by your efforts, and I want to assure you that in any way possible, this administration will support the university to reposition it and restore its lost glory.

    READ ALSO: The death of local government

    “It is not right for people to work and not be paid. The issue of unpaid salaries, pensions and gratuities running into billions of naira is something I will take as a project.

    “These are issues inherited from the past government and we will address them.”

    The Vice Chancellor said she inherited a moribund AAU facing infrastructural problems, unpaid salaries, accreditation, among others.

    She thanked Governor Okpebholo for the “life-saving interventions” since his assumption of office.

    Prof. Omonzejie said the governor’s approval of increased monthly subvention, restoration of affected workers to the payroll, support for graduating backlog medical students, improved security logistics and facilitation of road construction through Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) had revived the university.

  • Osun 2026: Ex-Assembly Speaker Salaam picks ADC ticket

    Osun 2026: Ex-Assembly Speaker Salaam picks ADC ticket

    Four hundred and eighty-two members of African Democratic Congress (ADC) and 53 special delegates yesterday elected ex-Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Dr. Najeem Salaam, as the governorship candidate of the party for 2026 Osun State election.

    The Chairman of ADC Primary Election Committee, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, said: “A total of 535 delegates were expected for the exercise, comprising 482 delegates from the local governments and wards, as well as 53 special delegates.”

    He said Salaam clinched the party’s ticket after securing an overwhelming 520 votes at the primary.

    READ ALSO: Insecurity: Why are we defeated?

    He added: “Five hundred and twenty-eight  delegates were accredited and all cast their votes. Of this number, eight votes were declared invalid, while 520 votes were valid and were all credited to Salaam. The total number of votes scored by him is 520.”

    Nwajiuba said: “By the powers conferred on this panel by the constitution of the ADC, I hereby declare Salaam as the candidate-elect and standard-bearer of the African Democratic Congress for the 2026 Osun State governorship election.”

  • EFCC: our mandate tackles corruption, not opposition

    EFCC: our mandate tackles corruption, not opposition

    • Commission insists it’s a non-aligned body

    • War against graft not focused on opposition leaders, says Showunmi

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday said its mandate is to investigate and prosecute corruption cases and not to hound the opposition.

    The commission said suspects of corrupt practices from the ruling party, opposition party and non-partisan actors have no immunity.

    A former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Ogun State, Segun Showunmi, has also said the war against financial and economic crimes should not be perceived as targeted against opposition figures.

    A statement by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said the commission would not succumb to blackmail.

    The statement said: “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is aware of the frenzy of accusations by some political actors across the country, questioning its operation. 

    “Claims of ‘Weaponisation of the EFCC’, ‘Erosion of EFCC’s Independence’, ‘Persecution of opposition politicians’, ‘Politicisation of EFCC’s operations’ and other assumptions contained in a recent media statement by some politicians, are deliberate misrepresentations of the commission’s task in bringing suspects of economic and financial crimes to book.

    “First, the commission’s weapon is its Establishment Act, which provides the ground norm of its activities. The Act mandates the commission to investigate and prosecute all economic and financial crimes.

    “The only exceptions to criminal prosecution by the commission are political officers granted constitutional immunity during their tenure.

    READ ALSO: The death of local government

    “Suspects of corrupt practices from the ruling party, opposition party, and non-partisan actors have no immunity and are being equally investigated and prosecuted by the EFCC.”

    The EFCC said it has been investigating and prosecuting strong members of the ruling party and those in opposition without bias.

    It added: “A checklist of arrests and prosecutions by the commission in the last two years under the current leadership shows that strong members of the ruling party, such as former governors, ministers, and others not publicly known, are sharing tables with a motley number of opposition politicians as well and others. 

    “The truth about the EFCC is that it is only faithful to its mandate and nothing else. This mandate is about tackling corruption and not any imaginary adversary or political motive.

    “The commission finds insinuation made by opposition politicians that “there is a discernible pattern of persecution of the opposition by the EFCC with the sole objective of weakening same for the benefit of the ruling APC” quite untenable.

    “Where is persecution in asking a suspect of corrupt practice to account for his sleaze? Is stealing, embezzlement of public funds, contract fraud, money laundering and other corrupt practices excusable for some?

    “Corruption has no gender, religion, tribe, political party or other extraneous alignment. Selective outrage cannot be a defence against a criminal investigation for graft. The crucial question is, are opposition politicians being investigated or prosecuted by the commission wrongly accused?”

    The EFCC said its operations do not threaten democracy.

    The commission promised not to succumb to blackmail and abandon the investigation of cases.

    It added: “What threatens democracy is not the EFCC doing its job but the attempt to intimidate or blackmail it into abandoning investigation allegations against corrupt opposition politicians for fear of accusations of selectivity.

    Also, Showunmi, a former spokesman to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar during the 2019 presidential election buildup, stated that the ongoing arrest and investigation of past public officials by EFCC operatives or other anti-graft agencies should not be perceived as a threat to Nigeria’s democracy or an attempt to crush opposition leaders.

    Showunmi warned that what really constitutes threats to the nation’s democracy are attempts by political actors and some opposition leaders to weaponise their status as immunity from arrest and prosecution for any alleged infraction.

    The ex-governorship aspirant in Ogun State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election stated this yesterday in reaction to the allegation by some key opposition figures who on Sunday cried out aginst what they called Federal Government’s use of anti-graft agencies to intimidate, weaken and obliterate opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general election.

    In a statement to The Nation yesterday, Showunmi, who is the Convener of ‘The Alternative,’ a movement rooting for credible leaders, good governance, and accountability, stated that anti-corruption is neither anti-opposition nor should the investigation of any public official be interpreted as persecution.

    He warned that the country would not trade the rule of law for political convenience, stressing that those with clean hands have nothing to fear, while any past public official with questions to answer should also answer them before the law.

    He said: “Nigeria’s democracy is not under threat because public officials are being investigated. It is under threat when political actors attempt to weaponise opposition status as immunity from the law.

    “The Nigerian Constitution is clear. It mandates the State to abolish corruption and abuse of power. It does not create exemptions for opposition leaders, former office holders, or political coalitions. The only immunity recognised by law is limited, specific, and temporary and it ends when a public officer leaves office.To suggest otherwise is to invent a privilege unknown to the Constitution.

    “Investigation is not persecution. The EFCC and other anti-graft agencies are legally bound to investigate allegations of economic and financial crimes. Investigation, arrest, and prosecution when carried out within the law do not violate fundamental rights. This is settled by the Supreme Court, not by political press conferences.

    “Calling an investigation ‘victimisation’ does not make it so. It only signals an attempt to pre-empt justice with propaganda.

    “What truly threatens Nigeria’s multiparty democracy is not the EFCC doing its job, but the growing attempt to intimidate, de-legitimise, or blackmail anti-corruption institutions whenever investigations touch politically exposed persons.

    “Democracy does not mean freedom from scrutiny. It means submission to the law, especially by those who once held public trust.”

  • 2027: CJN cautions judges on how to handle election-related cases

    2027: CJN cautions judges on how to handle election-related cases

    Ahead of the 2027 general election, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has cautioned judges to be careful in their handling of election-related matters.

    She advised them to stop granting conflicting decisions, encouraging forum shopping, and abuse of ex parte orders, among others.

    The CJN spoke yesterday in Abuja at the opening of the 2025/2026 legal year of the Federal High Court and the court’s 41st annual judges’ conference.

    She said: “As we look ahead to the 2027 general election, the Judiciary will once again be called upon to play a stabilising national role.

    “Election-related disputes must be handled with discipline, consistency, and strict adherence to constitutional and statutory timelines.

    “The nation looks to the courts for clarity and balance at such critical moments. This court has a crucial role to play in pre-election dispute resolution.

    READ ALSO: Insecurity: Why are we defeated?

    “Conflicting interim orders, forum shopping, and the abuse of ex parte processes undermine the credibility of the entire justice system and weaken public confidence.

    “Heads of divisions must, therefore, enforce procedural discipline firmly and fairly.

    “The Judiciary must never be perceived as a theatre for political gamesmanship; it must remain a sanctuary of constitutional order.”

    Justice Kekere-Ekun also urged judges to prevent delays and judicial officers to actively manage cases and guide proceedings.

    The CJN said the National Judicial Council (NJC) would continue to strengthen oversight of case progression to support efficiency and institutional discipline.

    She stressed that the Judiciary was committed to improving the working conditions, infrastructure, research support and safety of judicial officers.

    According to her, a judge who feels insecure cannot dispense justice confidently.

    The CJN noted that unpredictable or inefficient court processes could undermine even well-reasoned judgments, emphasising that punctuality, consistency in court sittings, and transparent communication with litigants and counsel are essential components of justice delivery.

    “Our judgments constitute our voice, and the manner in which we discharge our duties defines the authority and credibility of that voice,” she stated.

    Justice Kekere-Ekun said there is a need for judicial independence that is anchored on responsibility, courage, and moral clarity.

    The CJN praised judges of the Federal High Court for continuing to discharge their duties with professionalism, despite mounting pressure and public scrutiny.

    For the Justice sector’s reforms to achieve their goals, Justice Kekere-Ekun said digitisation is no longer optional but a core institutional priority.

    The CJN called for the expansion of virtual hearings, e-filing, electronic case tracking and secure digital records to enhance speed, accountability and public trust in the courts.

    The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, expressed delight about the court’s performance in the past legal year, in its efforts to enhance efficient and effective service delivery.

    Justice Tsoho stated that at the end of the 2023/2024 legal year, a total of 161,999 cases were pending and carried over to the 2024/2025 legal year, adding that within the period, a total of 19,925 cases were filed, which brought the total number of pending cases to 181,924.

    “From this number, a total of 16,019 were disposed of, leaving 165,905 pending cases,” he said.

    Justice Tsoho added that of the 16,019 cases disposed of, 3,113 were civil cases, 5,818 were criminal cases, 3,724 were motions, and 3,364 were fundamental human rights cases.

    The chief judge said a total of 44,650 civil cases, 44,078 criminal cases, 46,228 motions, and 30,949 fundamental rights enforcement applications remained pending at the end of the last legal year.

    He announced that the process of appointing 14 additional judges to the Bench of the court had reached an advanced stage following the approval and support of the CJN and the chairman of the NJC.

    The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe (SAN), said the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court over matters that define the country’s economic, regulatory and constitutional framework places it at the centre of national development and investor confidence.

    Osigwe urged judges of the court to remain vigilant against any actual or perceived political capture or manipulation.

    The NBA president added that any perception that judicial processes are shaped by partisanship undermines the foundation of the rule of law.

    He said the Judiciary must guard its independence with utmost vigilance as its authority rests not on force but on public confidence in its neutrality.

    Osigwe said the Federal High Court must insist that its jurisdiction cannot be manipulated as a substitute for political will, party leadership, party discipline or internal democracy adding that, “Not every quarrel within a political party is justiciable and not every grievance constitutes a legal dispute.

    “The court’s docket should not become a political theatre or a stagging ground for political leadership or factional dominance,” he said.

    Speaking on behalf of the Body of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (BOSAN), Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN) urged judges to be bold, strong and of good courage in the discharge of their duties.

    He added: “The Law is what the judges say,” he said.

    Agabi noted that the dominance of one political party as it is now, which has virtually eliminated opposition, makes the work of the Judiciary more urgent and important.

    He urged judges to be bold, honest, and innovative in the adjudication of political matters as the hope of the nation is in the judiciary.

  • Alleged N2.2b fraud: Court to rule on Ngige’s bail application Thursday

    Alleged N2.2b fraud: Court to rule on Ngige’s bail application Thursday

    A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Gwarimpa, Abuja, has ordered that a former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, be remanded in Kuje Prison until December 18, when his bail application will be determined.

    The court had, on December 12, after he was arraigned on an eight-count charge, ordered that Ngige be kept in Kuje Prison pending the hearing of his bail application yesterday.

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Ngige on charges bordering on abuse of office and acceptance of gifts from contractors of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) during his tenure as supervising minister from September 2015 to May 2023.

    Justice Mariam Hassan yesterday ordered that Ngige should be returned to prison after she heard arguments from lawyers to the parties on whether or not Ngige deserved to be granted bail.

    Ngige’s lawyer, Patrick Ikwueto (SAN), prayed the court to, among others, grant bail to his client on health grounds.

    He submitted that the former minister would not jump bail or interfere with the prosecution’s witnesses if granted bail.

    READ ALSO: The death of local government

    Responding, the prosecuting lawyer, Sylvanus Tahir (SAN), objected, claiming that Ngige is a flight risk.

    Tahir said the EFCC had earlier granted Ngige administrative bail and allowed to travel abroad for medical care, but he failed to report back to the EFCC.

    The lawyer said the international passport released to him to facilitate his trip abroad trip was never returned.

    He argued that it was when Ngige was rearrested that he came up with the alleged loss of his passport, which the prosecuting lawyer called an afterthought.

    He prayed the court to reject Ngige’s application for bail.

    Justice Hassan adjourned till Thursday for ruling.

    Ngige is named the sole defendant in the charge.

    In one of the counts, Ngige is alleged to have, between September 2015 to May 2023, while being the supervising Minister of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), used his position to confer an unfair advantage upon Cezimo Nigeria Limited, a company whose MD/CEO and alter ego, Ezebinwa Amarachukwu Charles, is his associate.

    Ngige is said to have awarded seven different contracts for consultancy, training, and supply by the NSITF to the said company to the tune of N366,470,920.68.