April 29, (THEWILL) – A Civil Society Organisation, Nigerian Watch Front Group, has frowned at the continuous stay in office of the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investments, Dr Evelyn Ngige, despite allegations levelled against her.
Dr Ngige was alleged to have been involved in a procurement scandal and alleged bribery of the Head of Service of the Federation.
While the investigation on the allegation is ongoing, the group, in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Abubakar Gazali Yaro, wondered why Dr Evelyn Ngige has not been suspended from office.
The statement read: “The Nigerian Watch Front Group wish to express her continuous concern on the allegation levelled against Dr Evelyn Ngige, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investments over her involvement in procurement scandals and alleged bribery of the head of service, public procurement to shield her from corrupt practices following her indictment by the Nigerian Police Force.
“You may recall that the investigation ordered by the Inspector General of Police indicted the permanent secretary for contravening Section 58(4) (d)(5) of the public procurement act, which is a clear criminal bridge of trust capable of being prosecuted under the law.
“We are dismayed that Mrs Ngige still finds herself in public office and has not been suspended for her corrupt act.
The Nigerian police force has again invited her to appear before the IGP monitoring team to face interrogations.
“We equally commend the Nigerian police force for their relentless efforts despite alleged huge financial inducement to mute over the case, this has further demonstrated the ability of the force towards criminal convictions and prosecutions of corrupt Government officials.
“We, therefore, urge anti-corruption agencies to carry out an investigation for further prosecution of her corrupt act.”
