Group alleges witch-hunt plot against Theodore Orji
The Equity and Justice Initiative (EJI) has said that it uncovered a plot by some “disgruntled elements” in Abia State to use the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to tarnish the image of former Governor Theodore Orji.
In a statement, the group claimed those behind the plot had been hatching it for years with the intent to harass Orji, whom they asserted did his job as governor creditably.
Orji is the immediate past senator who represented Abia Central Senatorial District.
The alarm comes days after Dr. Philips Nto, a former Finance Commissioner in the Orji Administration, raised his concerns over unending invitations by the EFCC without charge.
EJI, in a statement by its Secretary, Dr. Abel Akudo, said the masterminds of the plot wanted to use the anti-graft agencies to disgrace Orji who voluntarily retired from active politics after his meritorious service to the state and the nation at large.
The statement reads: “We want to place Abians on alert about a clandestine mission by detractors to discredit Senator T.A Orji and his family using the anti-graft agencies.
“What could be their grouse with the former governor or could it be a question of jealousy over his outstanding performance while in office and his rising profile even after leaving office?
“Plans by some disgruntled individuals and groups to tarnish the image of Senator Theodore Orji have been unearthed.Related News
“In the past few years, these disgruntled elements who are hell-bent on pulling down the former governor have not relented in writing all untenable petitions against him before the EFCC.
“It is on record that as a governor, Senator Orji acquitted himself creditably with great achievements that are there for everyone to see.
“Even as a Senator, the former governor impacted positively on the lives of his constituents via his numerous empowerment programmes.”
The group frowned at using anti-graft agencies to endlessly harass the former governor, arguing that he would not be unwilling to defend himself if charged to court.
“The Senator TA Orji we know, will not be unwilling to face any panel, court summons or trial by any anti-graft agency to give an account of his stewardship while in public service.
“So, instead of resorting to continued smear campaigns, the detractors should be more reasonable.
“Every plot seen and unseen by this power-hungry group to rubbish the former governor will fail.
“In the nearest future these disgruntled elements will be exposed to the public as their identities will be made known to Abians,” the statement added.
