Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an order for the interim freezing and forfeiture of over ₦228.4 million connected to Theodore Orji, the former Governor of Abia State.
This ruling comes in response to allegations of money laundering involving the substantial sum, which is currently held in a commercial bank.
The order was granted following an ex-parte motion presented by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Counsel for the EFCC, Fadila Yusuf, argued that the funds are suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities and are part of an ongoing investigation by the agency.
The EFCC has identified Effdee Nigeria Ltd. as being in possession of the funds, further raising concerns about their legitimacy.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite directed the EFCC to publish the order on its official website as well as in the newspaper with a 14-day window from the date of publication to show cause why the funds should not be forfeited to the Federal Government.
The judge adjourned the matter to February 3 for a report of compliance.
