Ifeanyi Okowa, Former Governor of Delta State, Remains in EFCC Custody for Second Night Amid Corruption Allegations
Ifeanyi Okowa, the former governor of Delta State, continues to be held at the Port Harcourt office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), spending a second night in detention. His arrest follows accusations of misappropriating N1.3 trillion in state funds during his time in office.
Okowa, who was the vice-presidential candidate alongside Atiku Abubakar for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, had voluntarily reported to the EFCC office on Monday after receiving an official summons. However, upon his arrival, he was detained by investigators.
In addition to the alleged misappropriation of N1.3 trillion, Okowa is being scrutinized for his involvement in the alleged diversion of N40 billion, which he reportedly used to purchase shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas. Sources familiar with the investigation revealed that Okowa is also accused of acquiring a significant stake—8% equity—in a major Nigerian bank, with the funds intended for other purposes.
Furthermore, investigators are probing claims that the former governor used state funds to acquire properties in both Abuja and Asaba, Delta State.
A source close to the investigation confirmed that Okowa remains in custody due to the serious nature of the allegations against him. The source stated, “We are continuing our investigation, and earlier, he was confronted with some of the charges. Given the scale of the allegations, we are keeping him in custody to allow for a full response to the claims.”
