The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for arresting Ifeanyi Okowa, the former Governor of Delta State.
Okowa, who was also the PDP’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, was detained over allegations of misappropriating ₦1.3 trillion. This amount allegedly stems from the 13 percent derivation funds allocated to Delta State during his tenure.
The PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, addressed the media in Abuja on Tuesday, condemning the arrest. He argued that the Delta State government had never claimed that funds were missing during Okowa’s administration. Osadolor described the arrest as politically motivated and a form of harassment aimed at silencing opposition voices, which he believes undermines democratic principles.
He further stated, “It is surprising that a man who came to the EFCC office himself was detained, and he is still in detention. The man was not evading arrest. He is a global figure and he is being accused of large financial mismanagement, which is untrue.” Osadolor also pointed out that Okowa’s detention followed shortly after PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar began criticizing government policies.
Osadolor also criticized the EFCC’s actions, accusing the agency of acting as both a prosecutor and a judge, while also making public statements about an ongoing investigation. He warned that such practices were dangerous for the country’s democracy. “EFCC is playing the role of a litigant and going to the media with an investigation that was purportedly ongoing. The development is very dangerous and we must condemn it,” he said.
The PDP official also noted that several former governors and leaders within the ruling party have faced similar financial allegations but have not been detained. He questioned the political motivations behind Okowa’s arrest, suggesting it was part of a broader pattern targeting opposition leaders. “What is the difference with what has happened in the case of Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa if not mere politics?” he asked.
Osadolor called for Okowa’s immediate release and an end to the media trials of opposition leaders. He also speculated that the EFCC might soon target Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki next. “This is a plan targeted at opposition leaders in the country,” he said.
Finally, Osadolor urged the EFCC to maintain its neutrality, stressing that it should not serve as an extension of the ruling party. He also called for a reform of the EFCC Act, suggesting that the appointment of the commission’s leadership should be independent of the presidency. “Let the judiciary or the Senate appoint the chairman or board members of EFCC. It should not be under the exclusive control of the presidency,” he added.
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