A Magistrate Court sitting in Wuse, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has ordered the Nigeria Police and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to investigate allegations of fraud, tax evasion and related offences levelled against Engr. Augustine Chinedum Emelobe, Chairman of Northbridge Energy Limited.
The development comes as the Leaders and Elders’ Council of Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, renewed their call for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately prosecute Engr. Emelobe over what they describe as longstanding, unresolved criminal allegations.
In a petition dated September 8, 2025, submitted through their solicitors Chuks Uguru & Co., the elders accused the EFCC of a “conspiracy of silence” following the Commission’s alleged completion of investigations into the complaints against the energy executive.
According to the petition, the elders wrote twice to the EFCC—on December 10, 2024, and April 23, 2025—seeking updates on the outcomes of the investigation. Both letters were ignored, they said.
Elders Fault Emelobe’s Claim to Igwe Stool
The Elders’ Council also alleged that Engr. Emelobe has been unlawfully parading himself as the Igwe of Oba, despite facing a four-count criminal charge before a Magistrate Court in Anambra State relating to alleged usurpation of the town’s traditional stool.
They maintained that the throne of Oba must be occupied by a man of unquestionable character and insisted that anyone embroiled in criminal controversies should not lay claim to the title.
30-Day Ultimatum to EFCC
In the petition, the elders demanded the immediate arraignment of Engr. Emelobe and issued a 30-day ultimatum to the EFCC. They warned that they would seek an order of mandamus to compel prosecution if the Commission fails to act within the stipulated time.
Call for Transparency and Rule of Law
The Elders’ Council expressed concern that the EFCC’s silence is generating tension within the community and urged the Commission to act decisively.
They also called on the Police, FIRS and other relevant agencies to comply with the FCT court order and ensure a thorough investigation into the allegations.
South South Times . 