The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has applauded the recent arrest of former Delta Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, calling it a "positive step" in Nigeria's ongoing battle against corruption.
In a statement issued shortly after the news broke, the APC highlighted that Okowa's arrest signifies the administration's dedication to tackling financial mismanagement and corruption at both state and federal levels.
Okowa, who served as the Governor of Delta State from 2015 to 2023, was detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of embezzlement and misappropriation of public funds during his administration. The charges relate to alleged financial misconduct involving state funds and questionable contracts awarded during his time in office.
The statement, signed by Delta APC State Publicity Secretary Valentine Onojeghuo Esq., commended the Federal Government for its decisive action, urging the EFCC to continue its investigation into the financial dealings of other former governors and public officials. The party emphasized that the arrest reflects a broader agenda to curb corruption, promote transparency, and ensure that public funds benefit the citizens rather than serving personal interests.
"We in the APC wholeheartedly welcome the arrest of former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, who oversaw one of the most concerning cases of financial mismanagement during his eight-year tenure. His administration allegedly funneled significant state resources into personal ventures, including establishing a bank, financing a failed presidential ambition, and supporting the controversial imposition of a successor," the statement read.
The APC underscored that the arrest serves as a caution to all public officeholders, affirming that "the era of impunity is over." "No one, irrespective of position or political affiliation, is above the law," the statement continued. "The fight against corruption must be thorough and unwavering, and we commend the administration's efforts in this regard."
Alongside its endorsement of the arrest, Delta APC used the occasion to criticize the Okowa administration's alleged mismanagement of public resources. According to the party, despite Delta State’s considerable oil revenue, the state remains economically challenged, suffering from inadequate infrastructure, high unemployment, and widespread poverty. "During his eight years in office, Delta State has little to show for the vast federal allocations received. The few substandard roads he constructed, often hailed as the 'road master,' have deteriorated rapidly," APC stated.
The APC further alleged that Okowa’s administration engaged in excessive borrowing, leaving the state in a fragile financial position. "The legacy of Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa's administration is a high debt profile resulting from a reckless borrowing spree, which earned him the notorious nickname of 'Borrow Borrow Governor,'" the statement added.
The party also criticized the former governor’s performance in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and security, suggesting that these failures contributed to worsening conditions across the state.
The arrest of Ifeanyi Okowa may have significant implications for Delta State's political dynamics, particularly as the APC seeks to expand its influence in the region. As a prominent figure in the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Okowa’s detention could potentially weaken the PDP's standing in Delta, creating opportunities for the APC to strengthen its presence in upcoming elections.
The Delta APC concluded its statement by reiterating satisfaction with Okowa's arrest as a development in the anti-corruption drive, calling on the EFCC to ensure thorough prosecution to set a precedent.
The party also urged further investigations into other public office holders in Delta, reinforcing its commitment to transparent governance. Whether this arrest will lead to long-term political change in Delta remains uncertain, but it marks a notable chapter in Nigeria's efforts to combat corruption.
