Ifeanyi Okowa, the immediate past Governor of Delta State, made his first public appearance on Friday, after being released by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The event marked a significant moment following his controversial arrest over an alleged N1.3 trillion fraud. Okowa attended a service of songs in honor of Mrs. Victoria Ossai Obielum, the late mother of renowned politician Godwill Obielum.
On November 4, 2024, Okowa was arrested by the EFCC in connection with accusations of financial misconduct amounting to a staggering N1.3 trillion fraud. His arrest caused a stir in the political circles of Delta State and beyond. After a few days in custody, Okowa was released on Friday, but not before the EFCC seized his passport as part of the investigation process.
His release came after intense public attention and speculation regarding the charges against him. The matter had sparked debates about the state of corruption investigations in Nigeria and their impact on political figures. Okowa’s first public appearance since his release was keenly awaited by his supporters and political allies.
On the evening of his release, Okowa joined his successor, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, at a service of songs to pay respects to Mrs. Victoria Ossai Obielum. The service, which was a solemn occasion, was attended by a wide range of political dignitaries and influential figures from Delta State. These included Solomon Arenyenka, the state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as well as other members of the state’s executive committee, who came to honor the late matriarch.
The event also saw the attendance of several political leaders, retired and serving security officers, and other well-known figures from the region. Despite the controversy surrounding his arrest, Okowa’s appearance at the event served as a strong reminder of his continued influence in the state’s political landscape.
While Okowa’s arrest had raised questions about his future in politics, his presence at the service of songs symbolized his resilience. His appearance with Governor Oborevwori, who succeeded him as Delta State’s governor, further highlighted the ongoing political support he has within the state’s political elite.
The event also served to show a united front within the PDP, as many attendees expressed their loyalty and solidarity with Okowa. Despite the legal challenges he faces, the turnout at the service was a testament to his deep political ties and the respect he commands among his peers.
Okowa’s return to public life is expected to have significant political implications, particularly within the PDP and Delta State. His legal issues and the fraud allegations against him are likely to remain a hot topic in the months ahead. His appearance at the service of songs, however, suggests that he remains an influential figure in the state’s political scene and could play a role in future political developments.
For now, Okowa’s supporters and critics alike will be watching closely as the legal proceedings unfold. His next steps will likely shape the direction of his political career and impact the dynamics within Delta State’s political circles.
In the meantime, Okowa’s appearance at the service of songs served as a reminder of the power of political networks and the ongoing influence of established political figures in Nigeria.
