EFCC confirms ongoing investigation of former Delta Governor, says no political bias
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed that its investigation into alleged corruption involving a former governor of Delta State is still active.
Sylvanus Tahir, Director of Legal and Prosecution at the EFCC, disclosed this on Thursday during a press conference in Abuja to mark the second anniversary of Ola Olukoyede, the EFCC Chairman.
It could be recalled that Ifeanyi Okowa, former Governor of Delta State, was reportedly arrested in November 2024 by the EFCC, over the alleged diversion of N1.3 trillion in oil derivation funds.
Okowa and Sheriff Oborevwori, the state’s current governor, both defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in April 2025.
Their defection had fuelled speculation that the anti-graft agency was shielding them from prosecution.
However, Tahir firmly rejected such insinuations, insisting that the EFCC operates independently of political influence.
“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.
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“To the best of my knowledge, that case is still undergoing investigation. And in due course, justice will be served”, Tahir said.
He explained that the agency takes time to conduct thorough and evidence-based investigations before filing charges, particularly in high-profile and politically sensitive cases, to avoid procedural setbacks.
“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.
Tahir further emphasised that no one is above investigation or prosecution, regardless of political connections or affiliations.
“There’s no attempt or intention anywhere to shield anybody on account of switching parties, certainly not under this chairman,” he stated.
Responding to criticism that the EFCC has not secured enough convictions of politically exposed persons, Tahir maintained that every case receives equal attention, whether it involves prominent figures or ordinary citizens.
“It’s been claimed that there are no high-profile convictions. Well, the simple answer is that for us here, crime is crime.
“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”, he said.
Tahir reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to pursuing all corruption cases with diligence and fairness, assuring that justice would be served without regard to political interests or affiliations.
