Abuja — The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa remains under investigation for alleged financial misconduct, dismissing claims that defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) offers protection from prosecution.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja to mark EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede’s second year in office, the Commission’s Director of Legal and Prosecution, Sylvanus Tahir, SAN, said partisan alignment does not influence the agency’s work.
“Someone asked whether politicians who cross over to the ruling party are shielded. The simple answer is that it’s not true,” Tahir said. “To the best of my knowledge, the case involving a former governor of Delta State is still under investigation, and in due course, justice will be served.”
Okowa, who governed Delta State from 2015 to 2023 and was the PDP’s vice-presidential candidate in 2023, defected to the APC in April 2025 alongside his successor, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and other state figures. He is being probed over alleged mismanagement of state funds during his tenure—allegations he has previously denied.
Tahir stressed that the EFCC’s preference is to complete thorough investigations before filing charges, particularly in politically sensitive matters. Rushed filings, he noted, have historically produced “not always satisfactory” outcomes.
“When we go to court, Nigerians will see what the case is about. There is no attempt or intention to shield anybody on account of party affiliation—certainly not under this leadership,” he said.
Responding to criticism about the pace of high-profile cases, Tahir said probes involving politically exposed persons are often complex and time-consuming.
“It’s been claimed there are no high-profile convictions. For us, crime is crime,” he added. “A governor who managed a state for eight years—whatever allegations arise—requires detailed scrutiny.”
The remarks come amid public concern that some politicians seek refuge in the ruling party to evade accountability. The EFCC reiterated that all investigations continue on their merits and will proceed to court when evidentiary thresholds are met.
