Revelations have emerged of how former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, allegedly refunded over N500 billion to the Delta State Government, amidst the ongoing investigations into the financial dealings of his administration by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The Trumpet reliably gathered that Okowa discreetly bargained to refund the amount to avoid prosecution and for him to regain his political leverage.
During a recent appearance on Arise TV, the former governor was questioned about his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and allegations that it was a strategic move to seek protection from prosecution.
However, Okowa, dismissed such insinuations with confidence.
“I have not committed any sin. There is no sin to be forgiven. I was never arrested by the EFCC. I merely honoured an invitation by the agency. Anyone can write a petition, but it is the EFCC’s duty to investigate,” he answered.
However, a former high-ranking member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who recently defected to the APC alongside Okowa and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, disclosed that the former governor struck a behind-the-scenes deal with the EFCC to return a substantial portion of alleged misappropriated state funds.
According to the source, Okowa has already refunded over N500 billion, a move that is reportedly boosting the current administration’s financial strength and ability to execute multiple infrastructure projects without external borrowing.
The political heavyweight, who played a pivotal role in Gov. Oborevwori’s emergence as governor, made the revelation during a closed-door meeting with his loyalists.
He explained that his decision to follow the defection train was not borne out of loyalty to the APC, but rather as a strategic means to weaken Okowa’s overbearing political grip on the PDP structure in Delta State.
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“Before now, Okowa practically controlled the PDP machinery in the state.
“It would have been impossible for Oborevwori or any other figure to challenge him from within the party. But with the defection to APC, the table has turned. He can no longer dominate the power play unchecked,” the chieftain revealed.
The source further indicated that the quiet return of the N500 billion was a key factor in the current administration’s ability to roll out numerous capital-intensive projects, many of which have received up to 40 percent mobilization without the state resorting to loans or deficit financing.
“That’s the secret they’ve tried to keep hidden. I was surprised to even only hear of it when we held our caucus meeting where we were told that they want to move and want all of us to join.
“It only came to light during the meeting because we decided to discuss and address issues frankly, just before the major stakeholders’ meeting that finalized the defection,” the chieftain stated.
The alleged refund deal is now being viewed as the source of Okowa’s confidence in public statements regarding the EFCC probe.
By returning a significant chunk of funds, Okowa appears to be positioning himself for political rehabilitation, while ensuring minimal legal consequences.
