The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the interim freezing and forfeiture of over N228.4 million linked to former Abia State Governor Theodore Orji. Justice Emeka Nwite issued the ruling on Wednesday following an ex parte application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The EFCC, represented by counsel Fadila Yusuf, argued that the forfeiture was crucial to its investigation into allegations of money laundering against Orji. The funds, held at Keystone Bank, were reportedly traced to Effdee Nigeria Ltd, a company accused of laundering state funds during Orji’s tenure.

According to the EFCC, Effdee Nigeria Ltd collaborated with Orji, members of his administration, and family members to siphon public funds through conspiracy, abuse of office, and diversion of government resources. The commission alleged that bank officials facilitated the illicit transactions, funneling funds through accounts and returning cash to Orji’s Special Adviser.

Justice Nwite directed the EFCC to publish the order in a national newspaper, inviting interested parties to contest the forfeiture within 14 days. Failure to do so may result in permanent forfeiture of the funds to the Federal Government.

Orji, a two-term governor and former senator for Abia Central, retired from active politics after his tenure. The case highlights ongoing investigations into financial misconduct during his administration.