Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an interim order for the freezing and forfeiture of more than ₦228.4 million, allegedly connected to former Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji, due to money laundering accusations.
Court’s Directives
Following an ex-parte motion by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) Counsel, Fadila Yusuf, Justice Nwite mandated that the EFCC publicize this order on its official website and in the Daily Trust Newspaper. This directive aims to inform any interested parties who might wish to contest the forfeiture.
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Opportunity for Objection
Interested parties have been given a 14-day window from the date of publication to demonstrate why the funds should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government. The case has been scheduled for further review on February 3 to check on compliance.
Details of the Allegations
The EFCC’s motion detailed that the sum of ₦228,497,773.12 was held in an account at a commercial bank, linked to Effdee Nigeria Ltd. In her arguments, Counsel Yusuf stated that the funds are under investigation by the EFCC and are suspected to be the proceeds of illegal activities, justifying the need for their interim seizure.
