HURIWA Gives EFCC Seven Days to Explain Silence on Okowa Probe

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), demanding a full public explanation over what it described as the agency’s “silence” on corruption allegations involving former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa.

In a statement released in Abuja on Wednesday, the civil rights group recalled that Okowa was reportedly invited, arrested, and questioned by the EFCC in November 2024 over alleged mismanagement of the state’s 13 percent derivation funds during his tenure. HURIWA noted that the case initially attracted significant public attention, with reports suggesting possible financial impropriety running into trillions of naira.

However, the group expressed concern that since the high-profile intervention by the anti-graft agency, there has been little or no public update on the status of the investigation or any prosecution efforts.

HURIWA said the apparent lull in the case coincided with Okowa’s defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in October 2025, raising concerns about the independence of anti-corruption institutions. According to the association, the timing has fueled public suspicion that political considerations may be influencing the handling of corruption cases.

The group warned that if the EFCC fails to either commence visible prosecution proceedings or provide a clear explanation within seven working days, it would mobilise civil society organisations for peaceful protests at EFCC offices nationwide.

“Has the alleged financial misconduct linked to Ifeanyi Okowa been quietly forgiven on account of political realignment?” the group queried, cautioning that such perceptions could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions and the rule of law.

HURIWA also referenced past comments by former APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, suggesting that political defections could influence the treatment of corruption allegations, and questioned whether such a precedent was at play in the Okowa matter.

The association further pointed to what it described as a broader pattern of unresolved high-profile corruption cases, citing instances involving Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, who had at different times been invited and questioned by the EFCC over allegations linked to his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State.

While stressing that allegations do not amount to guilt, HURIWA argued that the absence of transparent closure in such cases continues to erode public trust in Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the group emphasised the need for greater accountability in the political space. It proposed that the EFCC introduce a “Certificate of Clearance” system for political aspirants, certifying that they have no pending corruption cases.

The association also recommended the creation of a publicly accessible register of individuals under investigation, to promote transparency and enable informed electoral decisions by Nigerians.

HURIWA disclosed that it is considering seeking legislative backing for the proposed reforms, warning that Nigeria stands at a critical juncture where the integrity of its governance systems must be strengthened.

The rights group also urged the EFCC to act decisively and transparently, noting that the credibility of the anti-corruption fight depends not only on initiating investigations but also on pursuing them to logical conclusions without fear or favour.