Okowa Visits EFCC Lagos Office as investigations continue into allegations surrounding the diversion of approximately ₦1.3 trillion linked to Delta State finances during his tenure as governor.
Former Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, was reportedly at the Lagos office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, on Monday in connection with the ongoing investigation.
Sources familiar with the matter disclosed that the former governor’s visit was linked to inquiries being conducted by the anti-graft agency regarding the management of funds accrued to Delta State between 2015 and 2023.
According to information obtained from sources within the commission, investigators are examining allegations involving the diversion of 13 per cent derivation funds received by Delta State from the Federation Account during the period when Okowa served as governor.
The EFCC has not officially commented on the latest development. Efforts to obtain a statement from the commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, were unsuccessful as of the time this report was filed.
This is not the first time the former governor has faced questioning over the matter. On November 4, 2024, Okowa was arrested and interrogated by operatives of the EFCC at its Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate as part of investigations into the allegations.
Sources indicated that during his latest visit to the Lagos office of the commission, the former governor sought the release of his international passport to enable him travel abroad for medical treatment.
However, it remains unclear whether the anti-graft agency approved the request or whether any conditions were attached to the release of the travel document.
The investigation is part of broader efforts by the EFCC to scrutinise the management of public funds and ensure accountability in government financial transactions.
As the probe continues, observers say the outcome of the investigation could have significant implications given the scale of the allegations and the prominence of those involved.
The alleged diversion of ₦1.3 trillion remains one of the most high-profile financial investigations involving a former state governor in recent years.
While the EFCC continues its inquiries, no formal charges have been announced against the former governor in relation to the allegations.
Legal analysts note that investigations of this nature often involve extensive review of financial records, government transactions and witness testimonies before any prosecutorial decision is made.
The development has continued to attract public attention, particularly among stakeholders monitoring accountability and transparency in public office.
For now, the focus remains on the ongoing investigation and whether the EFCC will provide further details regarding the status of the case and Okowa’s request for the temporary release of his passport.