October 24, (THEWILL) — The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reaffirmed that the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption by former Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, remains active and unaffected by his recent defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The commission made this disclosure during a press briefing on Thursday in Abuja, to commemorate the second anniversary of EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede’s assumption of office.
Speaking at the briefing, the Director of Legal and Prosecution, Sylvanus Tahir, clarified that Okowa’s political moves have no bearing on the agency’s commitment to upholding accountability and transparency.
Emphasising that the EFCC does not shield politically exposed persons who switch parties to evade justice, Tahir said, “Someone asked the question that it is alleged that politicians who jump ship to the ruling party are shielded. The simple answer is that it’s not true.”
He added that the commission’s investigation into Okowa’s alleged diversion of public funds remains ongoing and would be pursued to a logical conclusion.
“I think the reference was made to the case of a former governor of Delta State. To the best of my knowledge, that case is still undergoing investigation. And in due course, justice will be served”, Tahir said.
The EFCC chief prosecutor stressed that the commission is determined to avoid hasty prosecutions that could jeopardise the integrity of cases before the courts.
“We have had situations where cases were rushed to court, and the outcomes were not always good. So we would like to do a thorough job”, he noted.
According to him, the EFCC is committed to building watertight cases that can withstand judicial scrutiny and restore public confidence in anti-graft efforts.
“When we go to court, Nigerians will see what the case is all about”, he assured.
Okowa, who served as Delta State Governor from 2015 to 2023, was arrested by the EFCC in November 2024, over allegations of diverting N1.3 trillion in public funds during his eight-year tenure. He is also accused of using state resources to acquire high-value properties in Asaba, the Delta State capital, and in Abuja.
The alleged diversion reportedly involved funds meant for infrastructure, healthcare, and education projects across the state.
EFCC sources had earlier indicated that several associates of the former governor had been questioned, and documents relating to the state’s financial transactions were under forensic review.
Tahir reiterated that the commission’s current leadership has zero tolerance for selective prosecution or political interference.
“There’s no attempt or intention anywhere to shield anybody on account of switching parties — certainly not under this chairman,” he emphasised, adding that the EFCC would continue to pursue all ongoing cases, regardless of the individuals involved, until justice is achieved.
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