Two prominent human rights organisations, the Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum and the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), have condemned the recent arrest of former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of embezzling N1.3 trillion.
The groups argue that the former governor is being subjected to political persecution.
At a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, Joseph Kpokpogri, Chairman of the Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum and IHRC Board Member, called for Okowa’s immediate release on self-recognition, questioning the EFCC’s handling of the case. He highlighted Okowa’s respectful cooperation with the EFCC, contrasting it with the defiant actions of Kogi State’s former governor, Yahaya Bello.
Kpokpogri also suggested that the charges may be politically motivated, aimed at weakening the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State ahead of future elections.
He emphasized that if N1.3 trillion had truly been misappropriated during Okowa’s tenure, it would imply significant failures in basic state functions, such as salary payments, infrastructure, and healthcare.
The organisations have warned that if the EFCC fails to provide evidence, they will protest at the EFCC’s Port Harcourt office.
