Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, former Governor of Delta State, has dismissed allegations of missing funds amounting to N1.3 trillion, asserting his readiness to contest for a Senate seat in the 2027 General Elections.
Okowa’s former Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, addressed the claims at a press conference in Asaba on May 5, 2026. He responded to accusations raised by a youth group in the state regarding the alleged disappearance of the N1.3 trillion.
Ifeajika firmly rejected the allegations, urging the public to avoid engaging in politics based on lies, insults, and violence. He clarified that the total revenue received by the state during Okowa’s eight-year tenure amounted to N2.65 trillion, all of which had been properly accounted for.
“In 2024, during Okowa’s vacation abroad, he was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to address the allegations. Upon his return, he promptly reported to the EFCC in Port Harcourt, where he responded to the claims,” Ifeajika said. He emphasized that Okowa was never arrested or detained and that the EFCC had no evidence to substantiate the accusations.
Ifeajika referred to a statement issued in 2024, which provided a detailed account of the state’s financial transactions under Okowa’s leadership. He noted that the statement had not been challenged in the two years since its release, further affirming Okowa’s innocence.
He also criticized those who had suggested Okowa’s involvement in financial misconduct, calling such demands for prison sentences “shameful.” If the allegations were true, he pointed out, the EFCC would have taken action.
Ifeajika also addressed the political shift from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), refuting claims that it was an attempt to shield Okowa from prosecution. “The move to APC was a result of consultations with key stakeholders in Delta State, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. The implosion within the PDP that we predicted has come to pass,” he explained.
As for Okowa’s future political plans, Ifeajika confirmed that the former governor has heeded the call from Delta North leaders and is set to run for the Senate in 2027. He also praised Okowa’s legacy, particularly his introduction of a health insurance scheme that allows citizens to access healthcare for just N7,000 annually.
Ifeajika commended the current administration under Governor Oborevwori for its achievements in governance, noting the continued progress in various sectors. He concluded by stating that critics have failed to present any substantial evidence against Okowa or the state’s policies.
