Former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Dr. Chris Ngige, was on Friday arraigned before an FCT High Court in Gwarimpa by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged contract fraud and gratification.

Ngige, who also served as governor of Anambra State between 2003 and 2006, was brought before the court on an eight-count charge bordering on abuse of office and unlawful award of contracts.

The anti-graft agency, in the charge dated October 31, accused the ex-minister of using his position to confer undue advantage on associates and companies linked to him through multiple contract awards.

Ngige, however, pleaded not guilty to all the allegations when the charges were read to him.

The former minister was reported to be in EFCC custody on Thursday, after initial speculations that he had been abducted. His media aide, Fred Chukwuelobe, later confirmed his presence at the commission’s office, dismissing the circulating rumours.

The matter has been adjourned, while proceedings continue.