Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa arrived at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Lagos Directorate 1 office on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, on Monday, June 22, 2026, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged diversion of derivation funds during his eight-year tenure from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023. Okowa, who served under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and is now the Delta North senatorial candidate for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 election, reportedly sought the release of his international passport to travel abroad for medical treatment.
Okowa's EFCC Visit: Passport Release Request
According to Premium Times, sources close to the matter indicated that Okowa's visit was primarily aimed at securing his international passport, which is in EFCC custody, to enable him to seek medical care overseas. However, as of the time of reporting, it remained unclear whether the commission had approved the request. The EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, has not publicly disclosed the outcome of the meeting or any decision regarding the travel documents.
Okowa has been under investigation since late 2024, though no formal charges have been filed against him. The former governor, who was the PDP vice presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has consistently denied any wrongdoing and pledged full cooperation with investigators.
EFCC Rejects Claims of Political Shield
The anti-graft agency has dismissed suggestions that politicians who defect to the ruling APC are shielded from investigation or prosecution. In a statement, the EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to thorough investigations and equal treatment of all suspects, regardless of political affiliation. The agency stressed that Okowa remains under probe for alleged fund mismanagement, and his defection does not affect the inquiry.
Legit.ng reports that the EFCC has vowed to continue its probe into the former governor, while Okowa's camp insists on his innocence. Earlier, Okowa denied rumors that he had returned ₦500 billion to the Delta State government amid the investigation. His spokesperson clarified that no money has been refunded and the investigation is still ongoing.
Okowa Breaks Silence on EFCC Probe
In November 2024, Okowa opened up about the investigation during a solidarity visit by the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council in Asaba. He asserted that he knows those behind his ordeal with the anti-graft agency, suggesting political motivations. The former governor maintained his innocence and expressed confidence that the truth would prevail.
This latest visit to the EFCC office marks a significant development in the ongoing probe. Observers are watching closely to see whether the commission will grant Okowa's request for his passport and how the investigation will proceed in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
