The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, in connection with an alleged diversion of over N1.3 trillion in state funds during his tenure from 2015 to 2023. The arrest marks a significant escalation in the anti-corruption battle in Nigeria, as Okowa is one of the highest-profile figures in the country's political scene.
According to sources within the EFCC, the former governor was apprehended at his residence in Asaba, the capital of Delta State, in the early hours of today. He is being interrogated over claims that he misappropriated billions of naira from the state's treasury, including funds meant for infrastructure projects, pension payments, and other public welfare initiatives.
The EFCC’s investigation reportedly began several months ago following multiple intelligence reports and whistleblower accounts, which raised alarms about irregular financial activities during Okowa's administration. These allegations include funneling state funds into private accounts, inflating contracts, and siphoning off money allocated for key government projects.
A statement from the EFCC confirmed the arrest and stated that Okowa would be formally charged with corruption and financial mismanagement. “The commission is committed to bringing those involved in looting public funds to justice, regardless of their political or social standing,” the EFCC said in its statement.
While Okowa has not yet made a public statement regarding the arrest, his political allies have denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. Some members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the party he represented as governor, have expressed solidarity with him, claiming the charges are a smear campaign orchestrated by political rivals.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through Nigerian politics, with many observers noting the timing of the investigation. Okowa, who served as governor for two terms, was a key ally of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and had been rumored to be considered for higher political office, including a vice-presidential candidacy. His arrest is seen as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts.
The EFCC has assured that the investigation will be thorough and transparent, and that all individuals involved in the alleged corruption network will be held accountable. If convicted, Okowa faces significant legal penalties, including a lengthy prison sentence, as well as the potential for asset forfeiture.
The case is expected to be closely watched both within Nigeria and internationally, as it highlights ongoing concerns about corruption at the highest levels of government in the country.
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