The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently detained former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa over allegations of diverting approximately N1.3 trillion in public funds. The funds reportedly come from the 13% oil derivation allocation meant to benefit oil-producing communities. Okowa, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023, was taken into custody in Port Harcourt after responding to a summons from the EFCC.

The EFCC is also investigating other alleged financial misconduct by Okowa, including investments in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas and several real estate properties acquired during his tenure. The arrest has drawn significant attention due to Okowa’s prominence as the 2023 vice-presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).