Okowa responds to ₦1.3 Trillion fraud claims: ‘I have no fear of EFCC investigation
Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has expressed confidence in his integrity, asserting he has nothing to fear from any investigation and will not hinder the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in its probe.
Reports indicate that the EFCC is investigating Okowa, who completed two terms as governor, over claims of a ₦1.3 trillion misappropriation.
Speaking at his Asaba residence on Thursday during a solidarity visit from the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, led by Maj.-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (retd.), the Orodje of Okpe, Okowa dismissed the allegations as “false and politically driven.” He accused certain individuals of manipulating facts to serve their personal agendas.
He described the accusations as both baseless and illogical, pointing out that siphoning such a large amount from the state’s coffers would be practically impossible.
“In politics, you must contend with various challenges, but it’s disheartening when unfounded claims are circulated in the media,” Okowa said. “To allege that someone could divert such an amount would mean taking ₦16 to ₦20 billion every month for 96 months. This isn’t just absurd; it’s a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.”
As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Okowa said he is committed to transparency and has no intention of obstructing the EFCC’s work. Unlike others who use court orders to block investigations, he believes the anti-graft agency should be allowed to carry out its mandate.
“The public deserves truth, not distortions crafted by certain individuals,” he said. “The petition’s claims are worlds apart from reality, and I trust the investigators can see through the lies. I’m aware of where these attacks are coming from, but they won’t deter me. With the support of our people and leaders like you, we made great strides in Delta State.”
Okowa expressed gratitude to the visiting traditional rulers for their support, reaffirming his commitment to serving with integrity.
