By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Community leaders in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, have petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), demanding the immediate prosecution of the Chairman of Northbridge Energy Limited, Engr. Augustine Chinedum Emelobe, over alleged fraud, tax evasion, and other financial crimes. The petition, which serves as the latest move in an escalating dispute, was submitted on September 8, 2025, by the law firm Chuks Uguru & Co. on behalf of the Oba Elders’ Council.
According to the petition, multiple complaints had earlier been filed with the EFCC accusing Emelobe of serious financial misconduct, prompting the Commission to initiate an investigation. However, the community leaders allege that since the investigation commenced, the EFCC has remained silent regarding its findings, raising concerns about what they described as an “undue and suspicious delay.”
The Elders’ Council stated that the Commission also failed to respond to two follow-up letters sent on December 10, 2024, and April 23, 2025. The first letter requested the EFCC’s investigation report and security clearance for candidates contesting the traditional stool of Igwe of Oba. The second letter sought an update on the prosecution status of Emelobe. Both correspondences, according to them, received no reply.Beyond the allegations of financial crimes, the petitioners expressed concern that Emelobe has been “falsely parading himself as the Igwe of Oba,” despite ongoing legal disputes. They noted that he is currently facing a four-count criminal charge before an Anambra State Magistrate Court over alleged usurpation of the traditional throne.
The Elders’ Council argued that the position of Igwe — regarded as the custodian of the community’s cultural heritage — must be held by someone of unquestionable integrity. They maintain that the unresolved allegations against Emelobe render him unfit to occupy or lay claim to the stool.The petition, signed by Managing Solicitor Chuks L. Uguru, issued a 30-day ultimatum to the EFCC to commence prosecution. Failure to do so, they warned, would compel the community to seek a court order of mandamus to force the Commission to arraign Emelobe before a competent court.The petitioners emphasized that the EFCC “must not wait to be prodded” before carrying out its statutory responsibilities, insisting that transparency and due process are critical to maintaining public confidence in the nation’s anti-corruption framework.
