The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to release former Delta State Governor and PDP vice-presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa, following his arrest over alleged diversion of funds. Timothy Osadolor, PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, made the appeal during a press conference in Abuja, condemning the detention as a political move aimed at silencing the opposition.
EFCC operatives confirmed Okowa’s arrest after he voluntarily reported to their Port Harcourt office. Okowa, who was allegedly involved in the diversion of N1.3 trillion from Delta State’s derivation funds, remains in custody. Osadolor criticized the EFCC’s approach, labeling it as “political witch-hunting” and emphasizing that Okowa was not evading arrest. He argued that Okowa’s detainment, especially after PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar’s criticisms of the government, raises questions of political bias.
Osadolor further accused EFCC of selectively targeting opposition leaders while ignoring financial misconduct allegations against ruling party figures. He cited a “pattern” of arrests against PDP figures, suggesting that more leaders, including Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, could face similar treatment.
The PDP official urged a review of the EFCC Act to limit presidential influence on the commission, advocating for independent oversight by the judiciary or the Senate to ensure EFCC’s neutrality.
