Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
…Gov Nwifuru unsists on due process
The Federal High Court sitting in Uyo has ordered the interim forfeiture of over ₦1.150 billion allegedly linked to the Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government, Prof. Grace Umezurike, and her aide, Ngene Nwanna Onyeabor.
The forfeiture order, granted by Justice M. Onyetenu on July 8, 2025, followed an ex parte application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Suit No: FHC/UY/MISC/66/2025.
According to the EFCC, the funds — suspected to be proceeds of corruption — were allegedly diverted from the coffers of the Ebonyi State Government and traced to multiple accounts domiciled in the United Bank for Africa (UBA) belonging to the duo.
In his ruling, Justice Onyetenu ordered the interim forfeiture of the said funds for a period of 60 days, pending the conclusion of investigations and the final determination of the case.
“An order of this Honourable Court is made forfeiting the property of the Respondents… in the interim for a period of sixty (60) days pending the final determination of this case,” the judge stated.
The court also directed the respondents or any other interested party to appear and show cause why the funds should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.
Reacting to the court order, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru urged restraint, emphasizing the presumption of innocence.
Speaking during a church service at the Government House Chapel in Abakaliki on Sunday, the Governor said:
“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.”
Governor Nwifuru also used the occasion to appeal to Ebonyi indigenes in the diaspora to return home and invest, assuring that his administration is creating a conducive environment for enterprise and development.
He revealed plans by the state government to launch a reintegration and empowerment programme targeting indigenes engaged in menial jobs outside the state.
“We will bring back our people who are doing menial jobs in other cities and empower them. They are not being appreciated by the people they work for and are often exploited,” he said.
According to him, the state is building warehouses and skills acquisition centres in its Industrial City to meaningfully engage the youth.
In a stern message to members of his cabinet, the Governor hinted at a possible overhaul, warning that non-performing officials may soon be replaced.
“Our vision, as contained in the People’s Charter of Needs, has not been satisfactorily realized… We’re still assessing them, and we shall do the needful if the need arises,” he added.
Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed his commitment to accountability, youth empowerment, and the full implementation of his administration’s developmental blueprint.
