The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has charged former Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji, and his son, Chinedum Orji, with 16 counts of fraud involving the misappropriation of ₦47 billion.
The duo was arraigned on Friday before the Abia State High Court alongside:
🔹 Dr. Philip Nto – Former Commissioner of Finance
🔹 Obioma King – Government contractor
🔹 Romas Madu – Former Director of Finance
Breakdown of the Allegations
🔹 ₦22.5bn – Security votes (2011-2015)
🔹 ₦13bn – Loan from the defunct Diamond Bank
🔹 ₦12bn – Paris Club refund
🔹 ₦10.5bn – First Bank loan meant for state and local governments
🔹 ₦2bn – CBN funds for SMEs
Bail and Next Court Date
The defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges. Their lawyers, including Bode Olanipekun (SAN) and Okey Amechi (SAN), applied for bail, which the EFCC did not oppose.
Justice Lilian Abai granted bail and adjourned the trial to June 18 and 19, 2025.
