#12YearsInJail: Orji Kalu Begs Not To Be Handcuffed In Public As He Cries In Court

Orji Kalu, former governor of Abia State who has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for fraud, has said he has a role to play in the national politics of 2023.

Kalu smiled at newsmen, saying ‘2023, here we come’ while he was being led out of the courtroom by Correctional Services officials after he was sentenced.

He was also seen asking prison warders, “where are you taking us to?”, while begging that they shouldnt handcuff him in public.

The former governor, who appeared shaken, said, “Where are you taking us to now? Please don’t handcuff me. I will follow you.”

Earlier, Kalu wiped tears from his eyes with a white handkerchief as Justice Mohammed Idris began reading an abridged version of the 228-page judgment.

The jusge further sentenced Kalu’s associate, Udeogu, to 10 years in prison while the company which was used in carrying out the fraud, Slok Limited, was ordered to be wound up by Justice Idris Mohammed.

The case began in 2007, 12 years ago, when they were first arraigned for the offences, but before a different judge.

In an amended 39 counts, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) proved that they conspired and divert N7.65bn from the coffers of the Abia State.