A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the temporary forfeiture of N228.4 million traced to Theodore Orji, a former governor of Abia State. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleged that the funds were proceeds of unlawful activities.
Justice Emeka Nwite issued the order following a motion filed by EFCC lawyer Fadila Yusuf. The court directed that the forfeiture order be published on the EFCC website and in *Daily Trust* newspaper. Interested parties have 14 days to contest the order before the matter resumes on February 3.
The money, held in a Keystone Bank account belonging to Effdee Nigeria Ltd, is believed to have been used by Mr. Orji, his family, and some government officials to siphon public funds while he served as governor. EFCC said Effdee Nigeria Ltd, originally a sewage and waste disposal firm, acted as a front to launder funds from Abia State government accounts.
Tahir Ahmed, an EFCC officer, stated that between 2016 and 2017, the commission received intelligence about financial crimes involving Mr. Orji. Investigations revealed that the funds were transferred to Effdee’s account, then distributed to various individuals who withdrew the money and returned it to the former governor’s office.
The EFCC investigation led to the arrest of Austin Akuma, a Keystone Bank official in Umuahia. According to the EFCC, Mr. Akuma acted as a middleman between the contracting firm and the governor’s office. The funds were allegedly funneled through the bank and handed over to Erondu Uchenna Erondu, a former special adviser to Mr. Orji.
—
The EFCC is continuing its investigation to uncover more details about the alleged diversion of public funds. The agency argued that the funds should remain frozen to prevent them from being spent or hidden before the investigation is concluded.
Justice Nwite found merit in the EFCC’s request and granted the interim forfeiture order. The case will continue in February.
Mr. Orji served as Abia State governor from 2007 to 2015. After his tenure, he became a senator representing Abia Central District. He retired from active politics in 2023.
The EFCC has been investigating several corruption allegations against Mr. Orji and members of his administration. This latest court order marks a significant step in the agency’s effort to recover public funds allegedly misappropriated during his time in office.
