Court orders temporary forfeiture of N1bn linked to Ebonyi SSG, Grace Umezurike

A Federal High Court sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has granted an interim forfeiture order on over N1 billion allegedly linked to Grace Umezurike, the Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government, and her aide, Ngene Nwanna Onyeabor.

Reacting to the development, Governor Francis Nwifuru said his administration would not rush to any conclusions over the court’s decision. Speaking during a church service at the Government House Chapel, Centenary City, Abakaliki, on Sunday, he stressed the need to await the outcome of investigations.

“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,” Nwifuru said.

According to The PUNCH, the forfeiture order was granted on July 8, 2025, by Justice Maurine Onyetenu, following an ex parte application brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Listed as the first and second respondents in the suit were Mrs Umezurike, a professor, and her aide, Mr Onyeabor. The EFCC alleged that both officials diverted public funds from the treasury of the Ebonyi State Government into six accounts domiciled in the United Bank for Africa (UBA).

Four of the affected accounts are reportedly owned by the SSG, while a fifth, owned by the aide, allegedly received N1.014 billion. The sixth account is said to be in the name of Affordable Multi Services Nigeria Limited.

The funds in question were reportedly earmarked for the purchase of rice for Ebonyi residents during the 2024 Christmas celebrations.

In its ex parte motion, the EFCC urged the court to order the interim forfeiture of the monies in the accounts for 60 days, pending final determination of the case. The commission also asked the court to compel the respondents, or any interested parties, to show cause why the funds should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

Additionally, the EFCC sought an order mandating the SSG and her aide to publish notices so interested persons could be informed before the court’s final decision.

Justice Onyetenu granted all the prayers of the commission, according to the certified court documents.

Meanwhile, Governor Nwifuru hinted at a potential cabinet reshuffle, saying underperforming officials may be shown the door.

“Our vision, as contained in the People’s Charter of Needs, has not been satisfactorily realised,” he added.