Former Abia State Governor Theodore Orji and four others were arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before Justice Lilian Abai of the Federal High Court in Umuahia, Abia State. The ex-Abia governor and his co-defendants face sixteen counts of conspiracy, official corruption, stealing, and diversion of public funds.
The charges against the ex-Abia governor, Chinedum Orji, Dr. Philip Nto, Onwumene King Obioma, and Romanus K. Madu include allegations of stealing N22.5 billion from Abia State’s security votes. They are also accused of converting N12 billion from the Paris Club Refund.
Details of the Charges
The EFCC alleges that the ex-Abia governor and his co-conspirators stole N22.5 billion between 2011 and 2015. Another charge states they conspired to steal and convert N12 billion from the Paris Club Refund meant for Abia State.
All defendants pleaded not guilty. Their lawyers applied for bail, which Justice Obai granted at N50 million each, with one surety each. The trial will begin on June 18 and 19, 2025.
