The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has made it clear that the corruption investigation involving former Delta State Governor Dr Ifeanyi Okowa is still ongoing — despite his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Okowa, who served as governor of Delta State from 2015 to 2023, was arrested in November 2024 by the anti-graft agency over allegations that he diverted ₦1.3 trillion in public funds during his eight-year tenure. He was also accused of using government money to buy expensive properties in Asaba and Abuja.
In April 2025, Okowa — who was the vice-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election — defected to the APC along with his successor, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and several other political figures from Delta State.
However, the EFCC says the defection will not affect its investigation.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja to mark the second anniversary of EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede in office, the commission’s Director of Legal and Prosecution, Sylvanus Tahir, said the agency does not stop investigating or prosecuting anyone because of their political party.
“Someone asked the question that it is alleged that politicians who jump ship to the ruling party are shielded. The simple answer is that it’s not true,” Tahir said.
“I think the reference was made to the case of a former governor of Delta State. To the best of my knowledge, that case is still undergoing investigation. And in due course, justice will be served.”
Tahir’s statement comes amid growing public concern that some politicians defect to the ruling party to escape corruption investigations. The EFCC, however, insists that no one is above the law and that justice will take its course, regardless of political affiliation.
