February 28 (THEWILL) – A former governor of Abia state, Theodore Orji, and four others, including his son, Chinedum Orji, have pleaded “not guilty” to a 16-count charge bordering on alleged misappropriation of N60.85 billion.
Orji, his son and three other co-defendants, including former finance commissioner, Obioma King; a government contractor and Romas Madu, were arraigned before an Abia State High Court, sitting in Umuahia on Friday, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Orji was governor of Abia from 2007 to 2015 and senator representing Abia central from 2015 to 2023.
The EFCC accused the the former Governor and his co-defendants of allegedly misappropriating N22.5 billion allocated for security votes from 2011 to 2015, stealing N13 billion from a loan facility granted by Diamond Bank, and illegal conversion of N12 billion from the Paris Club refund. The anti-graft agency also alleged that the defendants converted N10.5 billion from a loan granted by First Bank, which was meant for the Abia state government and its local government areas.
While all the defendants have been granted bail, Justice Lilian Abai, however adjourned the case to June 18 and 19, 2025, for trial.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
