•Rejects Claims of N1.3 Trillion Misappropriation
Former Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has dismissed allegations of misappropriating N1.3 trillion in oil derivation funds during his tenure, describing them as “puerile” and “preposterous.”
Okowa, who was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the allegations, emphasized that the entire issue was politically driven and aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
Speaking publicly for the first time since responding to the EFCC’s summons, Okowa made the remarks during a solidarity visit from the national leadership of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) at his residence in Asaba on Tuesday.
“I was not concerned about the EFCC invitation because I know that I served Deltans with integrity. The allegations are politically motivated.
“The petitioners are driven by petty political considerations, but I know I have done nothing wrong. I will continue to support Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the people of Delta State.”Okowa said
The former governor expressed disbelief at the scale of the accusation. “To claim that I misappropriated N1.3 trillion is absurd. To steal that amount, you would need to siphon between N16 billion and N20 billion every month. Not even the President of this country could do that, let alone a state governor,” Okowa stated.
Okowa further explained that when he assumed office in 2015, Delta State was struggling financially, with several local governments, including Ethiope East, owing salaries for as much as 15 months.
Despite the financial challenges, he maintained that his administration ensured prompt payment of salaries and made significant investments in infrastructure, including in the state’s riverine areas.
“I know that some people are unhappy with the progress we made, but I am confident that I served the state to the best of my ability,” Okowa asserted. “During my time in office, we made sure salaries and pensions were paid regularly, and we carried out projects that had long-lasting impacts.”
He reiterated his support for Governor Oborevwori, who he believes will build on the foundation laid during his tenure.
“Governor Oborevwori is making strides, and I am confident that by next year, he will accomplish even more for Delta State,” Okowa said.
On the EFCC’s investigation, Okowa expressed confidence that the agency would uncover the truth. “I have no problem with investigations. EFCC must do its job, but I am certain that when they conclude their work, they will find no evidence of wrongdoing.”
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The former governor also thanked the UPU for their unwavering support throughout his political career, noting that they played a critical role in his successful re-election bid. “The UPU stood by me and believed in equity. I got more votes from them than from the sons of the union who contested against me,” he said.
Earlier, Chief Ese Owe, President-General of the UPU, had expressed the union’s gratitude to Okowa for his contributions to the success of Governor Oborevwori’s emergence as the state’s leader.
The UPU leadership commended Okowa for his continued support for the people of Urhobo, both during and after his tenure as governor.
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