-Some Reportedly Go Into Hiding, May Flee Country
Fear has reportedly gripped some former Local Government Council Chairmen from Orlu Senatorial Zone in Imo State following a petition by the Orluzurumee Youth Assembly (OYA) to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the alleged misappropriation of public funds.
Reports indicate that some of the former council chairmen have allegedly gone into hiding to evade possible arrest and prosecution following the petition by OYA, the apex youth umbrella organisation representing the 12 Local Government Areas in Orlu Zone. Some are also reportedly contemplating fleeing the country.
Sources close to the former council chairmen were quoted as saying that they were unaware of those allegedly behind the moves to arrest and prosecute their principals. However, the sources reportedly linked the development to the petition submitted by the Orluzurumee Youth Assembly.
One of the former council chairmen, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed concern over what he described as attempts to hold them accountable for funds they allegedly did not embezzle.
He claimed that they had, on several occasions, been compelled to sign post-dated cheques involving huge sums of money by individuals he declined to identify.
The former chairman added that the situation had become particularly troubling for those intending to contest elective offices in 2027, noting that some were considering abandoning their political ambitions because of the controversy.
Meanwhile, a member of the Orluzurumee Youth Assembly, who also requested anonymity, said the organisation remained committed to promoting accountability and transparency in governance.
“Those who embezzled public funds or aided and abetted their misappropriation must be held accountable for their actions and inactions.
“It is unfortunate that the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, whose name has reportedly been mentioned directly and indirectly by some of the embattled former council chairmen, has remained silent amid allegations suggesting his possible involvement. However, no amount of threats, intimidation or arm-twisting will deter us from ensuring that justice not only prevails but is also seen to have prevailed,” the source said.
The OYA member further lamented that funds allegedly meant for community development, human capital development, infrastructure and socio-economic advancement in Orlu Zone could have been diverted without commensurate development projects to justify the expenditure.
“That such a huge amount of money, which ought to have been used to develop communities in Orlu Zone and enhance human capital, infrastructure and socio-economic development, was allegedly siphoned without anything tangible to show for it is an issue that must not be swept under the carpet,” the source added.
The organisation maintained that its demand for accountability was driven by the need to protect public resources and ensure that those found culpable through a proper investigation are brought to justice.
