A Federal High Court has ordered interim seizure of assets allegedly linked to former Abia aide Erondu Uchenna over an ongoing EFCC probe into a N28bn fund diversion. Read the full story.
….. EFCC alleges massive public fund diversion during past administration in Abia State
25/4/2025 All Facts Newspaper – In a bombshell development shaking political corridors in Abia State, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured a court order for the interim seizure of properties allegedly worth N1.2 billion, linked to a former government aide, Erondu Uchenna Erondu, over his alleged involvement in the diversion of N28 billion in public funds.
The ruling was delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, following an ex parte motion brought by EFCC counsel, Barrister Charles Oni, on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
The EFCC told the court it is investigating allegations of a complex web of criminal conspiracy, diversion of public funds, and money laundering that reportedly occurred between 2007 and 2010, when Erondu allegedly served as a personal assistant within the Abia State Government.
Properties Allegedly Acquired with Proceeds of Crime
According to the anti-graft agency, three properties allegedly tied to Erondu were discovered during the investigation:
A 4-bedroom bungalow in Umuahia North, valued at N400 million
A 3-bedroom bungalow in the same locality, worth N300 million
A luxurious 5-bedroom mansion in Guzape, Abuja, worth N500 million
The total estimated value of the alleged properties stands at N1.2 billion.
Court Asked to Forfeit Assets Pending Investigation
Barr. Oni, representing the EFCC, argued that the properties were allegedly acquired using funds unlawfully withdrawn from Abia State’s treasury during the suspect’s time in office. The court was urged to publish a forfeiture notice in the Daily Trust newspaper and the EFCC’s official website, inviting any interested parties to show cause—within 14 days—why the properties should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
“The EFCC is acting under the authority of Section 34 of the EFCC Act, 2004, empowered to trace, seize and forfeit properties suspected to be proceeds of economic and financial crimes,” Oni stated.
He further noted that the alleged crimes include criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, impersonation, illegal transfer of funds, and large-scale money laundering.
Judge Grants Interim Order
After reviewing the application, Justice Nwite ruled that the EFCC’s request was meritorious and granted the interim seizure order. The court adjourned the matter to May 26, 2025, for a report on compliance and any contesting claims.
According to the EFCC, the ongoing probe into the alleged N28 billion diversion was triggered by intelligence reports and preliminary findings, and the investigation is expected to continue for 30 days.
This latest court action has stirred intense public interest in Abia State, raising fresh concerns about the legacy of alleged unchecked corruption under previous administrations. Political observers suggest that more revelations could follow as the EFCC deepens its investigation.
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