The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has strongly condemned the decision of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to seek a retrial of former Abia State Governor, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, over alleged N7.1 billion fraud, despite his previous acquittal.

In a statement signed by its President General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, the group described the move as politically motivated and a deliberate attempt to harass and discredit Igbo leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.

COSEYL expressed deep concern over the leave granted by the Court of Appeal, Abuja, which allows the EFCC to challenge a previous Federal High Court ruling barring Kalu’s retrial. The group insisted that the original acquittal was the result of a thorough legal process, and any further action against Kalu undermines constitutional integrity.

“The Federal High Court found no sufficient evidence to substantiate the charges against Senator Kalu and acquitted him. The sudden push for a retrial raises serious concerns about its true motivations,” the statement read.

COSEYL argued that the case is part of a broader pattern of using anti-corruption agencies as political tools to weaken certain political figures. The group maintained that Kalu, a revered Igbo leader, has been targeted unfairly, warning that such actions erode public trust in Nigeria’s justice system.

“It is essential that the EFCC upholds the principle of justice free from political interference. A retrial after acquittal sets a dangerous precedent for politically motivated persecution,” COSEYL stated, calling on the EFCC to withdraw from the case in the interest of national unity.

The coalition further warned against using institutions like the EFCC for political maneuvering, particularly in the buildup to 2027, and urged the judiciary to remain independent and fair.