A Federal High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has ordered the interim forfeiture of over N1 billion allegedly linked to the Secretary to Ebonyi State Government (SSG), Professor Grace Umezurike, following an ex parte application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The court order comes after investigations revealed that Professor Umezurike and her aide allegedly diverted funds from the Ebonyi State Government treasury into six different accounts held with United Bank for Africa (UBA).
According to the EFCC, four of the UBA accounts belong to the SSG, while one account owned by her aide reportedly received N1.014 billion. A sixth account was opened under the name "Affordable Multi Services Nigeria Limited."
The anti-graft agency told the court that the funds were originally earmarked by the Ebonyi State Government for purchasing rice for state residents during the 2024 Christmas celebration.
In its application, the EFCC requested an interim forfeiture of the funds for 60 days pending the final determination of the case. The Commission also sought an order directing the respondents and any interested parties to show cause why the funds should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Justice Onyetenu granted all the prayers requested by the EFCC, according to court documents.
Governor's Response to the Allegations
Responding to the development, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru called for patience, stating that his administration would not rush to conclusions regarding the matter.
Speaking during a church service at the Government House Chapel in Abakaliki on Sunday, Governor Nwifuru said, "I received the news of the publication already before the Federal High Court, Uyo. She is presumed innocent until investigation reveals otherwise."
"I am a lawyer, and I know it is imperative to establish the facts before judgment to avoid setting wrong precedents," the governor added.
Governor Nwifuru also hinted at a possible cabinet reshuffle, warning that underperforming officials might face dismissal if they fail to meet expectations.
"Our vision, as contained in the People's Charter of Needs, has not been satisfactorily realised. That accounted for the minor reshuffle we did recently. We're still assessing them (officials) and we shall do the needful if the need arises," he stated.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about public fund management in state governments across Nigeria, as anti-corruption agencies intensify efforts to track and recover misappropriated funds.
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