ASABA: Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa made his first public appearance since his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged involvement in a N1.3 trillion fraud. Okowa was seen attending a service of songs in Asaba, Delta State, in honour of Mrs. Victoria Ossai Obielum, the mother of prominent politician Godwill Obielum, who passed away earlier this year.
Other top politicians present at the event were Sheriff Oborevwori, the Delta State Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Solomon Arenyenka, members of the state executive committee of the party, and top security officials.
Okowa was detained by the EFCC on Monday, November 4, 2024, following an investigation into an alleged N1.3 trillion diversion of funds, reportedly from the 13% derivation fund allocated to Delta State between 2015 and 2023. The former governor was later released on Friday, November 8, after his passport was seized. His release followed a wave of public discussions and calls for further investigations into allegations of financial misconduct involving former state governors.
During the service of songs, Pastor Ifeanyi Ogude of Heaven Bound Christian International Church Ministry delivered a sermon emphasizing the transient nature of life. His message encouraged people to live with integrity and leave behind a positive legacy, resonating with the event’s theme and the recent passing of Mrs. Obielum.
Mrs. Obielum, aged 87, passed away on June 20, 2024. Her burial is scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024, at her family’s residence in Ushie, Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Delta State.
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The Controversy Behind Okowa’s Arrest
The controversy surrounding Okowa’s arrest has dominated political discussions in Delta State, with some residents and politicians questioning the timing of the EFCC’s actions. Critics argue that Okowa’s achievements during his eight-year tenure as governor should have shielded him from such scrutiny. However, the allegations against him have sparked intense debate about financial mismanagement and corruption at the state level.
Sources within the EFCC have alleged that Okowa’s arrest stems from accusations that he diverted the N1.3 trillion from the federation account’s derivation funds, which were intended for development in Delta State.
In addition to this, Okowa is accused of misappropriating another N40 billion, allegedly used to acquire shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas and to purchase estates in Abuja and Asaba. Investigators are also reportedly looking into the acquisition of luxury properties and investments linked to the former governor.
Despite these allegations, Okowa’s supporters, including former officials from his administration, have rallied behind him, with some questioning the legitimacy of the claims. The ex-governor’s former Chief Press Secretary, Olisa Ifeajika, has publicly stated that the EFCC did not establish any case against Okowa.
According to Ifeajika, Okowa was merely invited by the EFCC to answer questions related to petitions from disgruntled individuals, and he cooperated fully with the investigation. He dismissed claims of financial wrongdoing, particularly the alleged acquisition of properties, stating that the estate in Abuja belonged to a public figure, not Okowa, and that Okowa had no financial interest in Premium Trust Bank.
Political Reactions and Public Sentiment
The arrest and release of Okowa have been met with mixed reactions. The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) welcomed the arrest, calling it a step forward in the fight against corruption. The APC criticized Okowa’s administration for alleged financial mismanagement and excessive borrowing, arguing that the former governor’s legacy is marked by a high debt profile and uncompleted infrastructure projects.
Valentine Onojeghuo, the APC State Publicity Secretary, praised the EFCC’s action, stating that Okowa’s arrest sends a strong message that no public official is above the law. He called for continued investigations into the financial dealings of other former governors, stressing the need for accountability in public office.
On the other hand, some human rights activists in the state have raised concerns about the EFCC’s handling of the case. Anthony Asakitikpi, a rights activist and South-South Zonal Acting Chairman of Huride, commended the EFCC for its swift action but insisted that all those involved in looting the state’s resources, including Okowa, should be held accountable.
Asakitikpi called for a thorough investigation into the alleged mismanagement of public funds during Okowa’s tenure, particularly the borrowing spree that left Delta State in significant debt.
Jude Ojiugo-Onochie, another human rights activist, criticized the selective nature of the investigation, calling for a broader probe into the actions of other past governors. He also expressed concern about the five-day detention of Okowa, suggesting that the EFCC’s handling of the matter may have violated his human rights.
As Okowa faces ongoing investigations, many in Delta State are closely watching how the situation unfolds. Political and social analysts have urged for a balanced approach, emphasizing the importance of due process and the rule of law. Peter Legacy, a political analyst, remarked that the investigation should not become an emotional issue but should be guided by institutional processes. He acknowledged the possibility of misappropriation during Okowa’s tenure but stressed that the investigation should follow the law and determine the truth.
In the meantime, the Delta people remain divided, with some supporting the former governor and others calling for full accountability. The outcome of the EFCC’s investigation into Okowa’s financial dealings will likely have far-reaching implications for the political landscape in Delta State and beyond, as the fight against corruption continues to dominate public discourse.
The investigation remains ongoing, and as the EFCC pursues its inquiries, both Okowa’s supporters and critics await the next developments in what has become one of the most high-profile corruption cases in the state.
