Okowa Returns To EFCC Over Alleged N1.3trn Derivation Funds Probe

A former governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday visited the Lagos Directorate 1 office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Ikoyi as investigations into the alleged diversion of N1.3 trillion of 13 per cent derivation funds continue.

Sources within the anti-graft agency disclosed that Okowa’s appearance at the commission’s office on Awolowo Road was linked to the ongoing probe of funds allegedly received by Delta State from the Federation Account between 2015 and 2023 during his administration.

The former governor was previously arrested by the EFCC on 4th November, 2024, and detained for questioning at the commission’s Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate as part of the investigation.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Okowa’s latest visit was primarily aimed at securing the release of his international passport.

He reportedly informed investigators that he needed to travel abroad for urgent medical treatment.

However, it could not be immediately confirmed whether the EFCC approved the request or returned the travel document.

Efforts to obtain comments from EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale were unsuccessful, as his calls to his mobile phone were not answered as of the time of filing this report.

The investigation into the alleged diversion of N1.3 trillion in derivation funds remains one of the EFCC’s most high-profile corruption cases involving former public office holders.

The commission is examining claims of mismanagement and possible diversion of oil revenue allocations intended for Delta State during the former Governor’s eight-year tenure.