In a candid address to members of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) at his residence in Asaba, former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa fiercely rebutted allegations that he misappropriated N1.3 trillion in oil derivation funds during his tenure. Dismissing the claims as politically motivated, Okowa argued that such accusations were designed to discredit him and noted that he was unbothered by his recent invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Okowa disclosed that the petition accusing him of misappropriation was filed months ago, a move he suggested was aimed at undermining his achievements. “Unfortunately, with the politics of our time, some people decided to ensure that Okowa must be invited by the EFCC,” he said. Referring to the staggering sum he’s accused of embezzling, he questioned the feasibility of such an amount. “To successfully take N1.3 trillion, it means you’d have to be taking between N16 billion and N20 billion every month into your pocket. I don’t even know if the President of this country could do that, let alone the governor of Delta State.”
The former governor defended his record, highlighting the financial hardships Delta State endured in his first three years in office. He noted that state funds during 2015 to 2017 were barely enough to cover salaries, with some local governments, such as Ethiope East, owing as much as 15 months’ wages. Delta’s salary and pension costs soared to over N11 billion per month, he said, adding that the state is one of the highest salary-paying states in Nigeria with over 56,000 workers on the payroll.
Okowa also pointed to his administration’s accomplishments, especially projects in the riverine areas, which he felt went unappreciated by his detractors. He expressed confidence that EFCC investigations would clear his name, remarking, “I know that I have done everything how it ought to be done. For every allegation, they will investigate, and when they have found the truth, they will stop. But for those who sent a wrong communication, it is rather unfortunate.”
In a solemn tone, Okowa warned that those who orchestrated the petition would face consequences, albeit offering a prayer for their forgiveness. “When you allow yourself to be used as a tool, when the evil starts to come, the impact will be so much, but I pray that God will forgive them,” he said.
The former governor reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his successor, predicting that Oborevwori would achieve great strides in the coming year. He also expressed gratitude to the UPU, acknowledging the group’s consistent support, which he said helped secure him substantial votes, even more than other Urhobo candidates in past elections.
