The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned former Abia State Governor, Theodore Ahamefule Orji, along with his son, Engr. Chinedum Orji, and three others—Dr. Philip Nto, Onwumene King Obioma, and Romanus K. Madu—before the Federal High Court in Umuahia, Abia State.

The defendants face a 16-count charge bordering on conspiracy, official corruption, stealing, and diversion of public funds amounting to N60.85 billion.

According to the EFCC, the charges include the alleged stealing and conversion of N22.5 billion in security votes allocated to the Abia State Government between 2011 and 2015. Additionally, they are accused of conspiring to divert N12 billion from the state’s share of the Paris Club refund between 2010 and 2011.

All defendants pleaded “not guilty” to the charges. The prosecution counsel, Dr. Pinheiro, requested a trial date, while defense counsels applied for bail.

Presiding Judge, Justice Lilian Abai, granted each defendant bail in the sum of N50 million with one surety under specific conditions. The case has been adjourned to June 18 and 19, 2025, for the commencement of trial.