Okowa's Visit to EFCC Lagos Office
Former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, visited the Lagos office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, on Monday, as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of diverting approximately ₦1.3 trillion. The visit marks a continuation of the anti-graft agency's probe into financial dealings during Okowa's tenure as governor from 2015 to 2023.
According to a source within the EFCC who spoke on condition of anonymity, the investigation centers on the alleged diversion of 13 percent derivation funds allocated to Delta State from the Federation Account. These funds are constitutionally designated for oil-producing states to compensate for environmental degradation and resource extraction. The source disclosed that Okowa is being questioned over how these funds were managed and allegedly misappropriated.
Previous Arrest and New Developments
Okowa had previously been arrested and questioned by EFCC operatives in November 2024 at the commission’s Port Harcourt zonal office in connection with the same allegations. During that interrogation, he was detained for several hours before being released on administrative bail. The former governor's latest visit to the Lagos office was specifically related to a request for the release of his international passport, which he reportedly needs to travel abroad for medical treatment.
The source added that Okowa submitted a formal application seeking the return of his travel document, which had been seized by the EFCC as part of the investigation. As of the time of reporting, it was unclear whether the commission had approved the request. The EFCC has not made any official statement regarding the outcome of the visit or the status of the allegations.
Investigation Details and Impact
The alleged diversion of ₦1.3 trillion represents a significant sum that could have been used for development projects in Delta State, one of Nigeria's key oil-producing regions. The 13 percent derivation fund is a critical revenue source for states like Delta, and any mismanagement could have far-reaching consequences for infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Legal experts suggest that if found guilty, Okowa could face severe penalties, including asset forfeiture and imprisonment. The investigation is part of a broader effort by the EFCC to crack down on corruption among former public officials. The agency has been under pressure to ensure accountability and recover stolen public funds.
Awaiting Official Response
Despite the gravity of the allegations, the EFCC has remained tight-lipped. Calls to the commission's spokesperson for comment went unanswered. Meanwhile, Okowa's legal team has maintained that their client is cooperating fully with the investigation and is confident that he will be exonerated.
The case continues to draw public attention, with many Nigerians watching closely to see whether the EFCC will successfully prosecute a high-profile former governor. The outcome of this investigation could set a precedent for similar cases involving state funds and political figures.
