Former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has declared his readiness to face the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as it probes him over allegations of diverting N1.3 trillion during his tenure. Nigerian Tribune reports.
Okowa, who claimed to know those orchestrating the investigation, described the allegations as “malicious and politically motivated.”
The former governor spoke on Thursday during a solidarity visit by the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, led by Maj.-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (retd.), the Orodje of Okpe, to his residence in Asaba.
“In politics, there are many things one must face, but it’s unfortunate when baseless accusations are presented to the media,” Okowa said, dismissing the accusations as “unintelligent lies.”
He further explained the implausibility of the claims, stating, “To claim that someone could misappropriate such an amount implies that they would need to take N16 to N20 billion monthly for 96 months. This is not just unreasonable; it’s a deliberate attempt to mislead.”
Okowa, a two-term governor and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) vice presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections said he welcomed the EFCC investigation and emphasised his commitment to transparency.
“I am not afraid of any investigation and will not stop the EFCC from carrying out its duties. Unlike others who seek court orders to obstruct investigations, I believe in transparency. However, the public deserves accurate information, not fabrications by certain individuals,” he asserted.
He expressed confidence that the investigators would uncover the truth, noting, “The information presented in the petition differs vastly from the facts, and I am sure the investigators have seen through the lies. I know the sources of these attacks, but they won’t deter me.”
