The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Delta State’s Accountant-General, Mrs. Joy Enwa, as part of a high-profile investigation into the alleged mismanagement of N1.3 trillion during the administration of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
The investigation centers around funds from the 13% derivation allocated to oil-producing states. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale disclosed that Okowa is accused of using his position to misappropriate state funds and acquire assets worth over N1.3 trillion. These assets allegedly include shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas Company and other investments in the oil sector.
The EFCC had earlier detained Okowa in November at their Port Harcourt division, marking a significant development in the ongoing probe.
In addition to Mrs. Enwa, the EFCC detained other officials, including a former Director of Finance and Administration, Ekeruche, and the Director of Administration for the Delta State Government House. These individuals reportedly provided separate statements during questioning.
Mrs. Enwa has faced financial misconduct allegations before. In 2015, while serving as Deputy Accountant-General, she was implicated in a N369 million fraud case alongside the then Accountant-General Cyril Agbele and other officials. This case emerged near the end of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s administration, but the allegations were denied at the time.
Despite these past controversies, Mrs. Enwa was appointed as Accountant-General in 2020 under Okowa’s administration. Her recent arrest has reignited concerns about financial management during the former governor’s tenure.
Mrs. Enwa declined to comment when contacted, referring questions to the EFCC. The anti-corruption agency has confirmed her arrest and subsequent release, along with other detained officials. As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge about the alleged mismanagement of public funds.
This case underscores the importance of accountability in public office and has sparked widespread interest in Delta State and beyond.
