(DDM) – Prominent Niger Delta environmentalist and rights advocate, Chief Sheriff Mulade, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to reopen its investigation into the alleged diversion of ₦1.3 trillion 13% derivation funds managed under the administration of former Delta State Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Mulade, in a strongly worded open letter addressed to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, accused the former governor of misappropriating funds meant for oil-producing communities through the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) between 2014 and 2023.
According to Mulade, the funds, intended to improve infrastructure, education, and livelihoods in oil-bearing communities, were allegedly diverted for political patronage and personal enrichment.
He lamented that despite the vast derivation resources accrued to Delta State, the living conditions of residents in producing communities remain deplorable, with widespread poverty, environmental degradation, and unemployment.
The activist questioned the EFCC’s silence since reports emerged in 2024 of Okowa’s purported arrest and interrogation over financial mismanagement, describing the anti-graft agency’s inaction as “a betrayal of public trust and accountability.”
Mulade stressed that corruption in the management of derivation funds has continued to fuel underdevelopment and agitation in the Niger Delta, insisting that no leader should be above the law.
He urged the EFCC to emulate the anti-corruption standards set by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s pioneer EFCC chairman, who was known for fearlessly confronting politically exposed persons.
The activist warned that shielding former public officeholders under political cover undermines the credibility of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and weakens public faith in the justice system
Mulade, who is also the National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), emphasized that reopening the probe would not only restore public confidence but also demonstrate EFCC’s commitment to transparency and fairness.
He further challenged the commission to publish details of all derivation-related investigations and ensure that those found guilty of diverting funds are prosecuted and compelled to make restitution.
According to him, “the oil-bearing communities of Gbaramatu, Escravos, Okerenkoko, Kokodiagbene, Ogulagha, and others have suffered untold neglect despite the billions that passed through DESOPADEC under Okowa’s watch.”
Mulade concluded that Deltans and the entire Niger Delta region are watching closely, adding that the outcome of the probe would determine whether EFCC still upholds its mandate to fight corruption without fear or favor.