The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has expressed approval over the recent arrest and detention of former Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, calling it “a positive step in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against corruption.”
“Okowa’s arrest signifies the administration’s dedication to tackling financial mismanagement and corruption at both state and federal levels,” the party stated.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by Delta APC State Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo, and shared with journalists in Warri on Tuesday.
Okowa, who served as Delta State governor from 2015 to 2023, was apprehended on Monday by EFCC operatives in connection with the alleged diversion of a substantial N1.3 trillion derivation fund.
This amount, sourced from a 13% derivation fund from the federation account, covered the period of Okowa’s administration.
The former governor reportedly appeared at the EFCC’s office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, after receiving an invitation from investigators. While there, he was detained and formally charged with alleged financial misconduct involving state funds and questionable contracts awarded during his tenure.
In its statement, the APC commended the Federal Government for its decisive actions and urged the EFCC to broaden its investigation to examine the financial practices of other former governors and public officials.
The Delta APC emphasized that Okowa’s arrest highlights a larger agenda “to curb corruption, promote transparency, and ensure that public funds benefit the citizens rather than serving personal interests.”
“We in the APC wholeheartedly welcome the arrest of former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, who oversaw one of the most concerning cases of financial mismanagement during his eight-year tenure,” the statement continued. “His administration allegedly funnelled significant state resources into personal ventures, including establishing a bank, financing a failed presidential ambition, and supporting the controversial imposition of a successor.”
The statement further emphasized that Okowa’s detention serves as a warning to all public officeholders. “The arrest serves as a caution to all public officeholders, affirming that the era of impunity is over and that no one, irrespective of position or political affiliation, is above the law. The fight against corruption must be thorough and unwavering, and we commend the administration’s efforts in this regard.”
The APC’s message continued to criticize Okowa’s legacy, describing it as one burdened by “a high debt profile resulting from a reckless borrowing spree, which earned him the notorious nickname of ‘Borrow Borrow Governor.’” During his time in office, the statement claimed, “Delta State has little to show for the vast federal allocations received. The few substandard roads he constructed, often hailed as the ‘roadmaster,’ have deteriorated rapidly.”
