New Delta Coalition Calls for Justice Amidst EFCC Investigation into Okowa’s Alleged Misappropriation of N1.3 Trillion
WARRI/Nigeria: The New Delta Coalition (NDC) has voiced its shock following the recent interrogation of Delta State’s former governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The investigation centres on allegations of large-scale financial misappropriation during Okowa’s tenure, reportedly involving the embezzlement of an extraordinary N1.3 trillion in 13% derivation funds allocated to Delta State between 2015 and 2023.
In a statement issued by NDC’s spokesperson, Godwin Anaughe, the group expressed grave concern over the claims that Okowa diverted public funds intended for the benefit of Delta’s communities, especially those in oil-producing areas.
“This alleged abuse of office casts a dark shadow over Okowa’s administration,” Anaughe stated, adding that such an alleged betrayal of public trust demands serious scrutiny and raises pressing questions about the true state of Delta’s resources.
Among the allegations, Okowa is said to have acquired multiple properties in both Abuja and Asaba using public funds. Further reports indicate that an additional N40 billion, supposedly invested in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas, may have been misappropriated for unrelated purposes, heightening suspicions of significant financial misconduct.
These accusations have only intensified the frustration already felt by Delta’s residents, who continue to grapple with poverty, pollution, and environmental degradation despite the state’s substantial oil wealth. Under Okowa’s administration, civil servants and pensioners reportedly faced months of unpaid salaries, and the state accumulated substantial debt while basic needs went unmet.
The EFCC’s probe represents a crucial opportunity to restore public confidence and ensure justice for the people of Delta State. Anaughe commended the anti-graft agency for its efforts, urging them to conduct a thorough investigation, retrieve any misappropriated funds, and hold all responsible parties accountable.
“The chronic poverty and lack of development across Delta State highlight years of unchecked corruption and financial mismanagement,” Anaughe remarked. “It is unacceptable that public servants, entrusted with the well-being of the people, have allegedly prioritised personal gain over public service. Deltans deserve transparency and accountability.”
The consequences of this alleged corruption have hit Delta’s oil-producing communities the hardest. Intended to address the region’s unique challenges, the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) appears to have failed in its mission, leaving communities like Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, and Ndokwa to bear the brunt of pollution and environmental decay with little government intervention.
Delta State’s current administration, led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has also come under scrutiny. Despite receiving N239.6 billion in 13% derivation funds between June 2023 and July 2024, substantial development remains to be seen, leading some to question whether Oborevwori’s leadership will follow in the same vein as Okowa’s.
Having served as Speaker of the Delta State Assembly from 2017 to 2023, Oborevwori now faces increased pressure to cooperate with federal authorities in recovering allegedly looted funds and implementing preventive measures against future corruption.
The NDC has firmly called for a transparent, impartial investigation to ensure that all public officials are held accountable. “Our vision for Delta State is one of responsible governance, where resources benefit the people they are intended to serve,” Anaughe affirmed. “The people of Delta State deserve better, and we will continue our advocacy for a new era of integrity and transparency.”
As Deltans contend with the lasting impact of mismanagement and corruption, the EFCC’s investigation offers hope for a future grounded in accountability and reform. The NDC, alongside Delta’s communities, remains resolute in its commitment to advocating for transparency, responsible governance, and the equitable use of public resources.
