The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has insisted that its probe into alleged corruption by former Delta State governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, is still ongoing, dismissing claims that his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) had influenced the process.
Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, made this known on Thursday, October 23, during a media briefing at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja to mark his second year in office.
Okowa was arrested in November 2024 over allegations of diverting ₦1.3 trillion in oil derivation funds during his tenure as governor.
His defection, alongside that of his successor, Sheriff Oborevwori, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in April 2025, sparked public criticism that the anti-graft agency was deliberately soft-pedalling on the case.
Reacting to the allegations, the EFCC’s Director of Legal and Prosecution, Sylvanus Tahir (SAN), who represented Olukoyede at the briefing, denied any political interference in the case.
He said, “Someone asked the question that it is alleged that politicians who jump ship to the ruling party are shielded. The simple answer is that it’s not true.
“I think the reference was made to the case of a former governor of Delta State. To the best of my knowledge, that case is still undergoing investigation. And in due course, justice will be served.”
Tahir explained that the commission takes its time with high-profile cases to ensure that investigations are thorough before any charges are filed.
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“We have had situations where cases were rushed to court, and the outcomes were not always good. So we would like to do a thorough job. When we go to court, Nigerians will see what the case is all about,” he said.
He maintained that no individual enjoys protection from investigation or prosecution due to political affiliation.
“There’s no attempt or intention anywhere to shield anybody on account of switching parties — certainly not under this chairman,” Tahir stated.
Addressing criticisms about the commission’s record on prosecuting influential figures, the EFCC official noted that every case, regardless of profile, receives the same level of attention.
“It’s been claimed that there are no high-profile convictions. Well, the simple answer is that for us here, crime is crime,” he said.
“Of course, when you are up against politically exposed persons, it is not a tea party. It takes time.
“For instance, a governor who spent eight years controlling a state and its resources — whatever allegations arise from his stewardship — it’s not something you rush to investigate within months or a year.”
Tahir reaffirmed the commission’s resolve to pursue all corruption cases with fairness, diligence, and independence, assuring Nigerians that justice would ultimately prevail.