The Apex Igbo sociocultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has strongly criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for reopening its case against Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, calling it an act of selective justice aimed at undermining Southeast leaders.
In a statement, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzo, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze, condemned the Court of Appeal’s ruling that allowed the EFCC to challenge a previous decision barring Kalu’s prosecution.
The case, which involves allegations of N7.1 billion fraud, had previously been closed following a Supreme Court ruling, raising questions about why it is being revived now.
While reaffirming its support for the fight against corruption, Ohanaeze accused the EFCC of applying double standards, pointing out that former governors from other regions linked to corruption cases have not faced similar scrutiny.
“The continuous targeting of Igbo politicians, especially as elections approach, suggests a broader plan to weaken the Southeast’s role in national politics,” the statement read.
The group alleged that Kalu’s legal troubles are politically motivated, particularly given his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election and his decision not to contest the 2027 presidency.
Ohanaeze urged the EFCC to uphold transparency and fairness, warning that politically driven prosecutions will deepen national divisions.
The group also called on President Tinubu to intervene, ensuring that the justice system serves all Nigerians equally, regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation.
With rising concerns over political maneuvering ahead of 2027, Ohanaeze insists that Nigeria’s legal system must remain impartial to sustain national unity and trust.