EFCC Arraigns Former Abia Gov. Theodore Orji, Son, And Three Others For Alleged N60 Billion Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday, February 28, 2025, arraigned former Abia State Governor Theodore Orji, his son Engr. Chinedum Orji, and three others before the Abia State High Court on charges of misappropriation and fraud.
The other defendants in the case include Dr. Philip Nto, a former Commissioner of Finance; Obioma King, a government contractor; and Romas Madu, a former Director of Finance for Abia State.
They appeared before Chief Judge, Justice Lilian Abai, on a 16-count charge of conspiracy, theft, and illegal conversion of billions of naira meant for government programs.
The EFCC accused the defendants of:
At the commencement of the trial, lead prosecutor Prof. Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, requested the court registrar to read the charges to the defendants to ensure they fully understood the allegations.
All five defendants pleaded not guilty.
Their defence team, comprising Bode Olanipekun, SAN (representing Theodore Orji), Chikaosulu Ojukwu, SAN (for Chinedum Orji), K.I. Oleh, Esq., Okey Amechi, SAN, and Isaac Anya, Esq., filed bail applications for their clients.
While the EFCC did not oppose bail, the prosecution urged the court to impose strict conditions.
After a brief stand-down, Justice Lilian Abai granted the defendants bail and adjourned the trial to June 18 and 19, 2025.
