EFCC Detains Former Delta Governor Ifeanyi Okowa Over Alleged Diversion of State Funds

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained Ifeanyi Okowa, former governor of Delta State, over allegations of misappropriating N1.3 trillion in government funds during his time in office. 

Okowa, who governed Delta from 2015 to 2023, was taken into custody on Monday after reporting to the EFCC’s office in Port Harcourt for questioning.

The N1.3 trillion reportedly represents Delta State's share of the 13% derivation fund, allocated to Nigeria's oil-producing states. The former governor is accused of channelling a portion of these funds toward purchasing shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG), a facility being developed by UTM Offshore Limited in Akwa Ibom State.

Sources close to the investigation have indicated that Okowa has been cooperative and has provided statements related to his acquisitions, including properties in Abuja and Asaba, Delta State. The investigation is part of the EFCC’s broader effort to track the use of public funds in oil-producing regions and ensure accountability among state officials.

Further inquiries into Okowa’s tenure as governor may bring additional details to light, as the anti-corruption agency continues its probe.