Former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa has denied allegations of diverting N1.3 trillion in state funds, calling them “malicious” and “politically motivated”.
Okowa, who served two terms as governor and was the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, vice presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, made his comments during a solidarity visit from the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council.
Okowa dismissed the accusations as “unintelligent lies,” pointing out the absurdity of claiming someone could misappropriate such a large amount.
“To claim that someone could misappropriate such an amount implies that they would need to take N16 to N20 billion monthly for 96 months,” he said. “This is not just unreasonable; it’s a deliberate attempt to mislead.”
Regarding the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, inquiry, Okowa welcomed the investigation, stating, “I am not afraid of any investigation and will not stop the EFCC from carrying out its duties.”
He emphasized his commitment to transparency, unlike others who might seek court orders to obstruct investigations.
Cyber Reporters reports that EFCC is probing Okowa over allegations of diverting N1.3 trillion in derivation funds from the federation account between 2015 and 2023.
These funds represented 13% of the state’s allocation. Okowa was taken into custody on November 4, 2024, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
