The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has affirmed that its investigation into alleged corruption involving a former Delta State governor remains active.
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Sylvanus Tahir, Director of Legal and Prosecution at the EFCC, made the disclosure on Thursday during a press briefing in Abuja to mark the second anniversary of EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede.
It will be recalled that Ifeanyi Okowa, former Governor of Delta State, was reportedly arrested by the EFCC in November 2024 over the alleged diversion of N1.3 trillion in oil derivation funds. Okowa and the state’s current governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, both defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in April 2025, sparking speculation that the anti-graft agency might be shielding them from prosecution.
Tahir, however, firmly dismissed such claims, stressing 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. To the best of my knowledge, that case is still undergoing investigation. In due course, justice will be served,” Tahir said.
He explained that the agency carefully conducts evidence-based investigations, 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. We would like to do a thorough job. When we go to court, Nigerians will see what the case is all about,” he added.
Tahir also emphasized that no one is above investigation or prosecution, regardless of political connections or party affiliations.
“There’s no attempt or intention anywhere to shield anybody on account of switching parties, certainly not under this chairman,” he stated.
Addressing criticisms over the EFCC’s record with politically exposed persons, Tahir said every case is given equal attention. “It’s been claimed that there are no high-profile convictions. Well, the simple answer is that for us, crime is crime. When you are up against politically exposed persons, it takes time. For instance, a governor who spent eight years controlling a state and its resources—whatever allegations arise from his stewardship—cannot be rushed to investigate within months or a year,” he said.
Tahir concluded by reaffirming 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.
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