A coalition of civil society organizations, spearheaded by the Enough Is Enough Movement Initiative (EIEMI), has publicly questioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding its lack of communication on an investigation into former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. The coalition described the agency's silence as “deafening and unacceptable.”
Coalition's Concerns
In a statement released on Sunday by EIEMI spokesperson Chibundu Chukwualuka, the group expressed worry over the EFCC's failure to disclose updates on the alleged mismanagement of N1.2 trillion during Okowa's tenure. The coalition warned that this silence threatens the EFCC's reputation as Nigeria's premier anti-corruption body.
“This silence is not just troubling—it is dangerous,” the statement read. “When an anti-corruption agency goes quiet on a matter of this magnitude, it raises fundamental questions about credibility, independence, and the will to act.”
Groups Involved
The coalition includes the Anioma Progressives, Ika Youths Organisation Worldwide, and Delta North Youth Advocates. They argued that the issue demands urgent attention, especially amid reports of Okowa's renewed senatorial ambitions.
According to the groups, unresolved allegations of financial mismanagement must be addressed transparently before any pursuit of higher office. “You cannot seek higher office while serious questions about public funds remain unanswered. The people of Delta North, Delta State, and Nigeria are not fools, and they will not be treated as such,” the coalition stated.
Demands on EFCC
The groups issued several demands: a clear, detailed, and time-bound update on the investigation; clarification on whether charges will be filed or the case abandoned, with reasons; and a public reaffirmation of the EFCC's independence from political or elite pressure.
“Anything short of full disclosure will be interpreted as complicity,” the statement warned, noting that Nigerians have seen high-profile investigations fade without resolution once political considerations emerge.
Non-Partisan Stance
The coalition emphasized that its intervention is non-partisan and aims to strengthen accountability and the rule of law. “No individual, no matter how powerful or connected, is above scrutiny. Justice delayed is justice denied—and selective justice is injustice,” it added.
The statement concluded with a warning that legal steps may be taken to compel action if the EFCC fails to respond. “The credibility of the EFCC is on the line,” the coalition said, signaling potential escalation.
When contacted, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewola did not answer calls or respond to WhatsApp messages regarding whether the commission is still investigating the former governor or has dropped the matter.
