EFCC Seizes Former Delta State Governor Okowa’s Passport Amid Corruption Allegations

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has seized the international passport of Ifeanyi Okowa, the former governor of Delta State, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct. Okowa was detained on November 4, 2024, following accusations that he misappropriated over N1.3 trillion in derivation funds allocated from Nigeria’s federation account between 2015 and 2023.

The funds in question were part of the 13% derivation allocation meant for oil-producing states. The EFCC has also accused Okowa of failing to provide a detailed account of these funds, along with an additional N40 billion which he reportedly used to purchase shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). These shares were said to represent an 8% stake in the company, which is involved in offshore LNG production. Furthermore, Okowa allegedly invested N40 billion into one of the country’s major banks.

Sources close to the EFCC have confirmed that Okowa was initially arrested and taken into custody at the agency’s office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. However, after meeting his bail conditions, Okowa was released last Wednesday. One of the conditions for his release was the surrender of his passport to the EFCC. The agency stated that this was a precautionary measure to prevent him from fleeing the country during the investigation.

A representative of the EFCC explained that while Okowa had met his bail conditions, the large sum involved in the case made it essential to secure his travel documents. The agency emphasized that this was a standard procedure to ensure the integrity of the investigation and prevent the accused from absconding.

The EFCC’s actions have raised questions about the level of accountability and transparency in the handling of public funds, particularly in cases involving high-ranking officials. The investigation is still ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge as the probe continues.