Defection: Okowa Still Under Probe – EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says investigation into the alleged corruption of a former governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa, still remains active, debunking the allegation that he is being shielded because he defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The anti-graft agency said justice will be served on his case, emphasising that no suspect enjoys immunity from investigation or prosecution because of political alignment.

Ola Olukoyede, the Chairman of the EFCC, made this clarification during a press briefing which held at the headquarters of the commission to commemorate his second anniversary in office.

Daily Trust reports that Okowa had in November 2024 been arrested by the anti-graft agency over the alleged diversion of N1.3tn in oil derivation funds.

The former governor and his successor, Sheriff Oborevwori, defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in April 2025.

After their defection, some Nigerians, both online and offline, accused the commission of shielding the former governor because of his alliance with the government at the Centre.

But Olukoyede, who spoke through the Director of Legal and Prosecution at the EFCC, Sylvanus Tahir, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, rejected the accusation, maintaining that the EFCC operates independently and without political bias.

He said, “Someone asked the question that it is alleged that politicians who jump ship to the ruling party are shielded. The simple answer is that it’s not true.

“I think the reference was made to the case of a former governor of Delta State. To the best of my knowledge, that case is still undergoing investigation. And in due course, justice will be served.”

The EFCC’s legal chief explained that the agency prefers to complete a comprehensive investigation before filing charges, particularly in high-profile or politically sensitive cases.

“We have had situations where cases were rushed to court, and the outcomes were not always good. So we would like to do a thorough job. When we go to court, Nigerians will see what the case is all about,” he said.

Tahir emphasised that no suspect enjoys immunity from investigation or prosecution because of political alignment.

“There’s no attempt or intention anywhere to shield anybody on account of switching parties — certainly not under this chairman,” he stated.

Addressing criticisms that the EFCC has not recorded enough convictions of prominent figures, Tahir insisted that every case receives equal attention, regardless of the profile of those involved.

“It’s been claimed that there are no high-profile convictions. Well, the simple answer is that for us here, crime is crime,” he said.

“Of course, when you are up against politically exposed persons, it is not a tea party. It takes time. For instance, a governor who spent eight years controlling a state and its resources — whatever allegations arise from his stewardship — it’s not something you rush to investigate within months or a year.”

He reaffirmed that the EFCC remains committed to pursuing all corruption matters, whether involving public officials or private individuals, with equal dedication and thoroughness.(Daily trust)