“Okowa’s Defection to APC Won’t Stop Corruption Probe” – EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reaffirmed that the defection of former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) will not halt its ongoing investigation into allegations of corruption against him. The EFCC’s Director of Legal and Prosecution, Sylvanus Tahir, stated this on Thursday during a press briefing marking the second anniversary of Chairman Ola Olukoyede’s tenure.

Tahir dismissed speculation that Okowa’s move to the ruling party had granted him immunity from investigation, insisting that no individual is exempt from scrutiny based on political affiliation. “It has been alleged that politicians who defect to the ruling party are shielded. That is not true. To the best of my knowledge, the case involving the former governor of Delta State is still under investigation, and in due course, justice will be served,” he said.

Okowa was arrested by the EFCC in November 2024 over allegations of diverting N1.3 trillion during his eight-year tenure as governor. He is also accused of using public funds to acquire properties in Asaba and Abuja. In April 2025, the former vice-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) formally joined the APC along with his successor, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and several other political figures from Delta State.