PDP Defends Okowa: Delta Govt Funds Not Missing, Party Criticizes EFCC’s Action

PDP Defends Okowa: Delta Govt Funds Not Missing, Party Criticizes EFCC’s Action

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for arresting former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa over alleged misappropriation of ₦1.3 trillion from 13 percent derivation funds allocated during his tenure. The EFCC confirmed that Okowa was detained after he voluntarily visited their Port Harcourt office...CONTINUE READING…

PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, speaking at a press conference in Abuja, condemned the arrest, stressing that the Delta State government had not reported any missing funds. He called the arrest a case of political persecution and an attempt to silence opposition voices, undermining democratic principles.

Osadolor pointed out that Okowa had previously been free to move about until the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, began criticizing government policies. “It’s alarming that someone who reported to the EFCC himself is now detained and publicly accused,” Osadolor remarked, adding that this move sets a dangerous precedent for democracy.

Osadolor also questioned why certain former governors from the ruling party, facing similar allegations, have not been pursued by the EFCC. “The actions against Okowa appear politically motivated. He should be released, and media trials targeting opposition leaders must end,” he asserted, speculating that other opposition figures, such as Edo Governor Godwin Obaseki, could be next.

He further called for the EFCC to remain neutral and not act as an extension of the ruling party. To safeguard its independence, Osadolor proposed reforming the EFCC Act so that appointments are handled by the judiciary or Senate rather than the presidency.