EFCC Imposes Travel Ban On Ex-Governor Okowa, Seizes Passport Over Alleged Oil Derivation Fund Misuse

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has seized the passport of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, restricting him from international travel as part of his bail conditions. Okowa, who was detained...CONTINUE READING…

last week over allegations of diverting N1.3 trillion in public funds, was granted administrative bail on Sunday.

The EFCC reportedly summoned Okowa to its Port Harcourt office, where he was questioned about the alleged mismanagement of funds allocated to oil-producing states under the 13 percent derivation formula during his tenure from 2015 to 2023.

Confirming the passport confiscation, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale noted that it is standard procedure for law enforcement to hold travel documents as part of bail requirements during ongoing investigations.

Okowa, however, contends that the EFCC’s probe is politically motivated. Speaking to the Urhobo Progress Union during a recent visit at his residence in Asaba, he described the allegations as rooted in political interests.