Corruption: EFCC Re-Arraigns Orji Kalu In Lagos

The Former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has been arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, in Lagos for money laundering charges.

Kalu, who served as governor between 1999 and 2007, was first arraigned in 2007 on a 96-count charge of money laundering.

The ex-governor is facing trial alongside his company, Slok Nigeria Limited, and a former Director of Finance in Abia State.

Advertisement

In May, he was re-arraigned before Justice Anwuli Chikere over allegations of misappropriation of N5.6 billion.

Last week, Kalu asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to compel the EFCC to prosecute him in Abuja.

In counts one to 10, Mr. Kalu was alleged to have, between August 13, 2003 and August 10, 2005, acquired Slok Nigeria Limited as well as retained in his account domiciled with the Apapa branch of First Inland Bank Plc, the total sum of N2. 502, 600 billion.

The money was said to have been derived from the treasury of Abia State government, through Manny Bank (now Fidelity Bank Plc), which were converted into several bank drafts and paid into the account of Slok Nigeria Limited.

Advertisement

In counts 11 to 20, Slok Nigeria Limited and Mr. Abone were alleged to have between April 29, 2003 and August 10, 2005, retained in their accounts domiciled with the Apapa branch of First Inland Bank now First City Monument Bank, the total sum of N2.493 billion, on behalf of Mr. Kalu.

Counts 22 to 33 accused Messrs Kalu, Udeogu, Abone, and Slok Nigeria Limited and E, to have between August 13, 2003, and August 10, 2005, collaborated and concealed N2.187,400 billion, which formed parts of funds Illegally derived from the treasury of Abia State government, through Manny Bank (now Fidelity Bank), and converted and paid the said sum into the account of Slok Nigeria Limited, with the Apapa branch of First Inland Bank Plc.

In count 34, the defendants were accused of, between May 2002 and December 2005, conspiring to commit money laundering of funds illegally derived from the treasury of Abia State government.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Leave a comment

Advertisement