The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned former Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji, and four others before the Abia State High Court over allegations of misappropriating ₦47 billion in public funds.
Also facing trial are his son, Chinedum Orji, a former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly; former Commissioner of Finance, Philip Nto; government contractor, Obioma King; and former Director of Finance, Romas Madu.
The EFCC has filed a 16-count charge against them, alleging:
- Diversion of ₦22.5 billion allocated for security votes between 2011 and 2015.
- Misappropriation of ₦13 billion from a loan facility obtained from the defunct Diamond Bank.
- Illegal conversion of ₦12 billion from the Paris Club refund.
The defendants pleaded not guilty. Their legal team, led by senior lawyers including Bode Olanipekun (SAN) and Chikaosulu Ojukwu (SAN), filed bail applications on their behalf.
Presiding over the case, Justice Abai granted bail and adjourned the matter to June 18 and 19, 2025, for trial.
While the EFCC insists that the prosecution is part of its anti-corruption mandate, supporters of the former governor claim the charges are politically motivated.
The case is expected to draw significant public interest as the trial progresses
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