Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested Ifeanyi Okowa, the former governor of Delta State, in connection with the alleged diversion of N1.3 trillion from the 13 percent derivation fund designated for oil-producing states

According to The Cable, sources involved in the investigation revealed that the funds were reportedly misappropriated between 2015 and 2023.

Ifeanyi Okowa was taken into custody on Monday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, after responding to an EFCC invitation regarding the allegations.

Additionally, the former governor is under investigation for allegedly using N40 billion to purchase shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas, a facility being developed by UTM Offshore Limited in Akwa Ibom State. He has reportedly failed to account for how these funds were utilized.

The EFCC is also looking into claims that Okowa diverted funds to acquire properties in Abuja and Asaba. Currently, he is being held at the EFCC facility in Port Harcourt. Okowa served as governor from 2015 to 2023 and was succeeded by Sheriff Oborevwori.