The Urhobo Youth Leaders Association has issued a strong statement condemning the detention of former Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, labeling it an act of political persecution.
In a press release signed by UYLA National President Olorogun Ambassador Samuel Oghotomo and Secretary General Olorogun Dr. Augustine Atiti, the association praised Okowa’s tenure as governor, highlighting the substantial development his administration brought to the Urhobo people and Delta State at large.
The statement read, “Okowa stood for equity and managed state finances prudently. His exemplary leadership and support for his successor are the reasons Delta State is currently experiencing massive, rapid, and extensive developmental transformations.”
The group believes the EFCC’s recent actions against Okowa are driven by political motives, stating, “We believe that his recent detention by the EFCC is orchestrated by political adversaries whose aim is to silence him ahead of the 2027 elections. As elections approach, political actors often fabricate allegations against their perceived opponents.”
Addressing the timing of the allegations, the UYLA questioned why accusations of embezzlement are emerging nearly two years after Okowa left office.
They suggested it is part of a strategy by opposition parties at both state and national levels to destabilize Delta State’s People’s Democratic Party and create an advantage for their own political interests in the 2027 elections.
The association emphasized that Okowa has shown transparency and integrity by voluntarily traveling from Europe to Port Harcourt to honor the EFCC’s invitation. “Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, being an honorable and law-abiding citizen, traveled from Europe to Port Harcourt to honor the EFCC’s invitation, demonstrating his commitment to transparency and integrity.”
They also criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress, stating, “The APC cabal behind this invitation should focus on apprehending their members in Kogi who have evaded arrest, rather than pursuing Okowa, who voluntarily responded to the anti-graft body’s invitation. No amount of APC intimidation will sway Okowa.”
UYLA urged the EFCC to avoid being used as a tool for political harassment and called for a commitment to lawful and impartial conduct. “The EFCC must resist manipulation by unscrupulous politicians intent on witch-hunting those who have committed no wrongdoing and refrain from frivolous allegations and media character assassination campaigns.”
The statement concluded with a stern warning that any attempt to misuse the law to intimidate or humiliate Senator Dr. Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa would be met with strong resistance from the people of Delta State.
