Okowa Seeks Release Of International Passport From EFCC Amid Ongoing Probe

Okowa seeks release of international passport from EFCC amid ongoing probe Former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, has reportedly applied for the release of his international passport currently in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, amid ongoing investigations into allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure in office.The move is said to be linked to a planned medical trip abroad, with sources indicating that the former governor approached the anti-graft agency seeking temporary access to his travel documents. It was not immediately clear whether the request had been approved at the time of reporting. Okowa’s passport has reportedly remained with the EFCC since his arrest in November 2024, when the commission launched an investigation into allegations involving the diversion of about ₦1.3 trillion in derivation funds received by Delta State between 2015 and 2023. The passport was retained as part of the conditions attached to his administrative bail. The former governor has consistently denied wrongdoing in connection with the allegations, while the EFCC continues its investigation into the matter. The commission is also examining claims relating to the management of public funds and certain investment transactions undertaken during his administration.Sources familiar with the development said Okowa recently visited an EFCC office as part of ongoing engagements connected to the investigation and discussions surrounding the release of the passport. The case remains under investigation, with no formal charges announced in relation to the latest request for the travel document.