EFCC : Obiano's former Adviser describes him as good man with large heart

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By Madu Obi

A Political Adviser during the embattled Chief Willie Obiano administration,

Chief Joe-Martins Uzodike has lamented the travails of the ex-governor, who is facing N4bn alleged graft offences.

Uzodike, who was the Director General of Obiano campaign organisation in 2013, expressed sadness over the ex governor's travails.

Describing Obiano as a good man with a large heart, Uzodike said though the former governor booted him out of office as his first Special Adviser on Political Matters unceremoniously, he stood in solidarity with him at this time of his travail.

Uzodike said: "I was saddened when I saw my one-time boss being arraigned in Abuja. Those charges were avoidable if proper consultations and advice were sought."

"They were largely first term alleged infractions which were curable, Obiano is a good man with a very large heart. He sacked me from office, and till date, my briefcase and everything I went to work with that day are still in my office at the Government House since 2015."

"It is unfortunate that he will go down in history as the first Anambra governor to face corruption charges. But he did well, there are projects like the bridges, the International Convention Centre, Awka Stadium, the Airport that are to his credit."

"The masses also voted his party and candidate as successor, that was a huge endorsement of his administration. I pray to our God almighty to give him the fortitude to go through his trial and justice at the end."

Uzodike, who is now a strong supporter of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, during the February 25 election, Mr Peter Obi, said in spite of their political differences, he could still attest to the fact that Obiano did his best for Anambra State.

According to him, Obiano had visible and legacy projects that did not only increase the rating of Anambra, but would serve generations to come.

Recall that Obiano was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for alleged misappropriation of N4bn security vote while in office before Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court Abuja on Jan. 24.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail till March 4 for continuation of the matter.