Delta State Accountant General’s Arrest by EFCC: Unpacking the Alleged N1.3trn Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested and detained Mrs. Joy Enwa, the Accountant General of Delta State, as part of an investigation into the alleged diversion of ₦1.3 trillion in state funds.
This investigation also involves former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who was detained by the EFCC in November 2024 over similar allegations.
The alleged misappropriation pertains to funds from the 13% derivation allocation designated for oil-producing states. Assets linked to the purported fraud include shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas Company and other investments in the oil sector.
In addition to Mrs. Enwa, the EFCC has reportedly detained other officials, including a former Director of Finance and Administration and the Director of Administration at the Government House, for questioning.
Mrs. Enwa’s tenure as Accountant General began in April 2020, following her appointment by then-Governor Okowa. Notably, in 2015, she was implicated in a ₦369 million fraud case alongside the former Accountant General, Cyril Agbele, and other officials; however, she denied the allegations at that time.
When contacted regarding her recent arrest, Mrs. Enwa declined to comment, suggesting that inquiries be directed to the EFCC. EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale confirmed her arrest and detention, stating that she and other officials were questioned and subsequently released.
The EFCC’s investigation is ongoing, focusing on the alleged large-scale diversion of public funds in Delta State during the tenure of former Governor Okowa.