Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa remains in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for a second night, as investigations continue into alleged misappropriation of N1.3 trillion. The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has publicly endorsed his detention, calling it a significant step forward in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
Okowa, who served as the running mate to Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 presidential election, initially reported to the EFCC’s Port Harcourt office on Monday after an invitation by investigators. Following his arrival, he was detained for further questioning.
Sources allege that Okowa also failed to account for N40 billion reportedly used to acquire shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). Additionally, he is suspected of using state funds to purchase shares worth N40 billion in a major Nigerian bank, securing an 8% equity stake for offshore LNG operations, and potentially misusing state funds to acquire estates in Abuja and Asaba.
An EFCC insider explained that due to the severity of the allegations, Okowa remains in custody. "We are still holding him because of the scope and scale of the allegations. He has been confronted with the evidence, and we are awaiting his response," the source disclosed.
In a statement, Delta APC State Publicity Secretary Valentine Onojeghuo expressed support for the investigation and urged the EFCC to continue scrutinizing financial dealings of other former governors and public officials. The APC statement highlighted concerns over Okowa’s financial management during his tenure, accusing him of funneling state resources into personal ventures and financing a failed presidential bid.
The statement emphasized that “the era of impunity is over,” adding that Okowa’s legacy includes a high debt profile and extensive borrowing, which left Delta State with inadequate infrastructure. "The roads he constructed, for which he was nicknamed the ‘roadmaster,’ are already in a state of disrepair,” the statement concluded.
The investigation into Okowa’s alleged financial misconduct underscores a broader push to hold public officials accountable and ensure transparency in governance.
