 has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to promptly release former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.){kind=link}
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to promptly release former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
The demand was made by PDP’s National Deputy Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.
Mr. Osadolor labeled Okowa’s detention as political witch-hunting and a means to suppress opposition voices, which he argued threatens democratic principles.
“Delta state has not reported any missing funds,” Mr. Osadolor stated. “Yet, the EFCC seems to be acting as both litigant and prosecutor, while publicizing details of an investigation that is supposedly ongoing.”
EFCC agents recently confirmed Okowa’s arrest, alleging he was involved in diverting N1.3 trillion from the 13% derivation funds during his term as governor. Okowa, who served as the PDP vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, was detained when he reported to the EFCC’s Port Harcourt office.
Mr. Osadolor defended Okowa, stating that he had been free until PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, began openly challenging certain government policies.
“Okowa is a well-known figure who wasn’t hiding. Accusing him of handling such massive sums is simply untrue,” he remarked.
He further criticized the EFCC, pointing out that several former governors from the ruling party also face financial allegations yet continue their activities unimpeded.
“This selective action against Okowa appears purely political. EFCC should halt these media trials and release him immediately.”
Mr. Osadolor expressed concerns that other opposition figures, including Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, might soon face similar scrutiny from the EFCC, warning that this appears to be part of a broader strategy to target opposition leaders.
While the PDP supports accountability for public officeholders, Mr. Osadolor emphasized that such actions should remain free from political motives.
He urged the EFCC to act independently and not as an arm of the ruling party or the presidency.
“We are also calling for an overhaul of the EFCC Act. The power to appoint the agency’s leaders should not rest solely with the president but should involve the judiciary or the senate to ensure neutrality,” he added.