Abuja, April 30, 2025 – Former Delta State Governor and 2023 vice-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, says he is not afraid of being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged N1.3 trillion fraud during his tenure.
Speaking in an interview with Arise News on Tuesday, Okowa defended his administration, stating he governed with integrity and delivered on the mandate given to him by the people of Delta State.
“I did well for the people of the state. Petitions can be written by anybody, but whatever petitions are written, the right of investigation is with the EFCC. So, there are no fears concerning that at all,” he said.
The EFCC is currently probing Okowa over alleged misappropriation of state funds between 2015 and 2023. The agency is also investigating a N40 billion investment in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), where state funds were reportedly used to acquire an 8% equity stake—allegedly without proper accountability.
According to sources, Okowa was arrested in November 2024 and later released after surrendering his international passport. He has since denied all allegations, describing them as “malicious and politically motivated.”
Defection to APC Sparks Speculation
Last week, Okowa, alongside his successor Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, PDP commissioners, and several political leaders in Delta State, defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Observers believe the defection may be an attempt to secure political protection amid the ongoing EFCC investigation. However, there has been no official statement from the EFCC regarding a change in the status of the probe.
Regrets Over 2023 VP Bid
Reflecting on the 2023 election, Okowa said he now regrets accepting the role of vice-presidential candidate, stating he should have aligned with the southern push for power shift.
“Even when we were campaigning, I realised our people were not interested in having another northerner come into power. But the decision had already been taken by the party,” he said.
Despite this, he appreciated the support he received from the people of Delta State, saying their loyalty was based on his performance and trust.
PDP Fallout and Atiku’s Future
Okowa also revealed that his relationship with PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar had cooled, hinting that both men may be on their way out of the party.
“We were no longer comfortable with the PDP… I also know that he (Atiku) is already heading out of the PDP from the communications he has passed on to me,” he added.
Political Background
Okowa, 66, has been a stalwart of the PDP since 1999, holding key positions including Commissioner for Health, Secretary to the State Government, Senator, and eventually, two-term Governor of Delta State.
