The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally arraigned former Abia State Governor, Senator Theodore Orji, along with his son, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji, and three others over allegations of corruption and misappropriation of public funds running into billions of Naira.
Details of the Allegations
The former governor, his son (a former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly), and their co-defendants—former Commissioner for Finance Dr. Philip Nto, former Director of Finance Mr. Romanus Madu, and contractor King Obioma—were arraigned before the Abia State High Court on Friday.
The EFCC’s 16-count charge accuses the defendants of:
- Misappropriating ₦22.5 billion in security votes allocated to Abia State between 2011 and 2015.
- Diverting ₦2 billion from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s SME funds meant for small and medium-scale businesses.
- Stealing ₦12 billion from the Paris Club Refund allocated to the state.
- Misusing ₦13 billion from a loan facility granted by the now-defunct Diamond Bank Plc.
Court Proceedings and Bail Grant
The case, filed under charge number HU/69c/2024, was heard at the Abia State High Court before the Chief Judge, Justice Lilian Abai.
All five defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Despite the severity of the allegations, the court granted them bail at ₦50 million each and scheduled the next hearing for June 18 and 19, 2025, when the EFCC is expected to present its case.
Defense Team Reacts
Speaking to journalists, defense lawyer Daniel Anya described the charges as “bogus” and “superfluous.”
He argued that the court’s decision to grant bail was justified, emphasizing that Nigerian law presumes all defendants innocent until proven guilty.
He further challenged the EFCC to provide concrete evidence to back its claims, stating that “he who alleges must prove.”
Public Reaction and Political Implications
This case has reignited debates about corruption in Nigeria’s political system.
Many citizens are demanding transparency, while others speculate about the political motivations behind the trial.
With the next hearing months away, the spotlight remains on the EFCC to substantiate its allegations and for the judiciary to ensure a fair trial.
Will justice prevail, or will this be another high-profile case that fades away? Nigerians are watching.
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