The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) continues to detain former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa at its Port Harcourt office for a second consecutive night. Okowa, who served as the Peoples Democratic Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 election, responded to an EFCC invitation on Monday regarding alleged misappropriation of N1.3 trillion in public funds.
The charges against Okowa include alleged diversion of funds for personal investments, notably a N40 billion share purchase in an offshore LNG project, and acquisitions of high-value properties in Abuja and Asaba. Additionally, investigators are looking into claims of other unaccounted funds and investments involving a major Nigerian bank.
An EFCC source disclosed that Okowa’s detention has been prolonged due to the gravity of the allegations. “The quantum of the allegations and amount involved necessitate his continued detention for a thorough response to each claim,” the source explained.
The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) expressed support for the EFCC’s action, describing it as a bold move in Nigeria’s fight against corruption. APC spokesperson Valentine Onojeghuo criticized Okowa’s administration for alleged financial mismanagement, which the party claims left Delta State heavily indebted and with deteriorating infrastructure despite large federal allocations.
The APC concluded by calling Okowa’s detention a strong reminder that no public official is above the law, signalling a shift toward accountability and transparency for all public office holders.
