Okowa Counters Accusations By EK Clark, Debunks Claims of Betrayal
ASABA/Nigeria: Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the immediate past Governor of Delta State, reaffirmed that he did not betray the Southern presidency by accepting to be Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s running mate.
He explained that his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), decided to open its ticket to present a strong candidate capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, as they were in the opposition.
The Former Governor, speaking through his Media Adviser, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, on Thursday, June 15, 2023, stated that once a Northerner emerged as the PDP’s presidential candidate through a transparent primary election, he was obligated by law to choose his running mate from the South. He addressed allegations raised by Chief Edwin Clark, an elder statesman, during an interview on Arise Television, emphasizing his respect for Chief Clark but expressing concern that previously addressed issues were being revisited.
Regarding the accusations of borrowing N150 billion and diverting state government funds to support Atiku Abubakar’s campaign, Okowa dismissed them as baseless and unfounded. He asserted that his tenure’s financial records were transparent and accountable, with all funds being utilized for the development of the state through numerous projects and investments in human capital.
Ifeajika clarified that the N150 billion mentioned was not a loan but bridging finance, and it was the diligence of the Commissioners for Finance in the Niger Delta oil-producing states that uncovered discrepancies. He explained that Delta State was owed N240 billion by the Federal Government, which had agreed to pay it in four quarterly installments over five years. While some states discounted and collected their full amounts, Okowa followed the rule of law and sought approval from the House of Assembly to utilize part of the funds for critical projects.
Addressing the allegation of owning a bank, Ifeajika stated that Okowa was a medical doctor and politician, not a banker or businessman. He clarified that no member of Okowa’s family had any association with the bank in question. Ifeajika explained that an individual named Okowa working at the bank had the right to be employed there, but it had no connection to Okowa’s family owning the bank.
Ifeajika expressed disappointment in Chief Edwin Clark for criticizing Okowa after his tenure, stating that an elder statesman’s role should be to support and build those in authority. He highlighted Okowa’s achievements in developing oil-producing communities, empowering thousands of youths, and making Delta State a leader in youth development. He urged Clark to commend Okowa’s accomplishments rather than disparaging him.
Regarding the funds accruing to DESOPADEC (Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission), Ifeajika clarified that the agency prepared its budget independently of the state budget. He emphasized that the funds were used to develop the state, and Okowa had fulfilled his responsibilities to the best of his abilities and should be allowed to enjoy his well-deserved rest.
