Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday apprehended Ifeanyi Okowa, the former governor of Delta State, in connection with the alleged diversion of N1.3 trillion in derivation funds. This sum, which constitutes a 13% share of the federation account, was meant for the state’s development between 2015 and 2023.

Sources within the EFCC disclosed that Okowa was at the commission’s office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, following an invitation by investigators probing the allegations. He was subsequently taken into custody.

One insider revealed, “Okowa was at our Port Harcourt office in response to the investigators’ summons, and he was arrested at the scene.” Another source added that Okowa faces accusations not only for the mismanagement of the N1.3 trillion but also for failing to account for an additional N40 billion, which he allegedly used to acquire shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and a major Nigerian bank.

Investigations also suggest that the former governor used the funds to purchase high-value properties in Abuja and Asaba, Delta State. These assets are part of a broader probe into the diversion of public funds. Okowa is currently being held at the EFCC’s detention facility in Port Harcourt.

When reached for comment, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the arrest but declined to provide further details.