JUST IN: EFCC arrests ex-Delta governor Ifeanyi Okowa over N1.3 trillion oil derivation fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arrested Ifeanyi Okowa, News Direct heard on Monday.

Officials said that the former Delta governor was taken into custody at the Port-Harcourt division of the anti-graft office.

The former governor faces allegations of fraud and mismanagement of public funds during his tenure, raising questions about his handling of Delta’s substantial resources.

Sources close to the EFCC report that Okowa is currently being interrogated as part of a broader investigation into financial irregularities.

Source familiar with the investigation, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Okowa’s detention is linked to efforts to uncover potential misuse of state funds.

Two political associates of Okowa also confirmed the detention under anonymity, expressing concern over the impact on Okowa’s legacy and the implications for Delta State’s politics.

Okowa, who led the state from 2015 to 2021, focused on infrastructure and social development but faced criticism over financial accountability issues.

This action by the EFCC aligns with the federal government’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign, intensifying scrutiny of public officials involved in alleged financial misdeeds.

The vice-presidential candidate during the last election was said to have used his office as governor to loot and acquire assets up to N1.3 trillion.