The expected arraignment of ex-governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC at an Abuja Federal High Court presided over by Justice Inyang Ekwo was truncated by the absence of the former governor.
Okorocha as the first defendant was to be docked alongside six others on a 17-count charge for alleged conspiracy and stealing of public funds amounting to N2.9bn.
When the matter was called up, on Tuesday February 22, six of the defendants were present with the exception of Okorocha who was neither present nor sent legal representation.
The prosecuting counsel, Cosmas Ugwu, told the court that it has been very difficult to effect service on the former Imo State governor because of the security cordon around him.
Justice Ekwo adjourned the matter till March 28, 2022 to enable EFCC effect service on the first defendant to take his plea.
Okorocha’s co-defendants in the case are, Anyim Amyirere Chinenye, Naphtali International Ltd, Perfect Finish Multi Projects Limited, Consolid Projects Consulting Ltd, Pramif International Limited and Legend World Concepts Limited.
