ASABA, Nigeria – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has detained Joy Enwa, the Accountant General of Delta State, over allegations of misappropriating N1.3 trillion linked to the administration of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
The investigation reportedly centres on funds from the 13 per cent derivation allocation designated for oil-producing states.
Mrs Enwa, however, has denied any involvement in wrongdoing, dismissing the allegations as politically motivated.
Allegations and Arrest
Mrs Enwa, who served as Deputy Accountant General under Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan before her appointment in 2020, described the accusations as an attempt to tarnish her reputation.
“I have always carried out my duties with transparency and accountability. This is an attempt to tarnish my reputation because of my position in the previous administration,” she stated before her arrest.
The EFCC confirmed her detention and subsequent release, describing it as part of standard investigative procedures.
“Mrs Enwa was detained for questioning over the ongoing investigation into the mismanagement of state funds under the former (Okowa) administration. Some other government officials have also been interrogated,” said EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale on Thursday, December 26, 2024.
“We are committed to due process. The investigation is ongoing, and we urge the public to allow the law to take its course.”
Political Undercurrents
The arrest has sparked speculation about possible political motivations.
A senior Delta State official, speaking anonymously, questioned the timing of the investigation.
“The timing of this investigation raises questions. Why are these allegations surfacing now, months after the transition to a new government?” the official said.
Supporters of Mrs Enwa argue that the probe may be part of a larger effort to discredit officials associated with the Okowa administration.
Past Controversies
This is not Mrs Enwa’s first brush with controversy. In 2015, she was implicated in a N369 million fraud case but was cleared of any wrongdoing following an internal investigation.
Reflecting on that period, Mrs Enwa expressed confidence in her ability to clear her name again.
“I have faced baseless accusations before and emerged innocent. I trust the EFCC to conduct a fair investigation this time as well,” she said.
Public Reactions
The arrest has elicited mixed reactions.
Anti-corruption advocates have praised the EFCC’s actions as necessary for accountability, while others see the probe as a potential political witch-hunt.
“It’s unfortunate that competent public servants are sometimes caught in political crossfires,” said a former Delta State commissioner.
Ongoing Investigation
The EFCC has hinted that more officials may be invited for questioning as the investigation unfolds.
Enwa’s legal team has called for patience and emphasised the importance of due process, urging the public to avoid premature conclusions.
“We are confident that Mrs Enwa will be exonerated of these allegations,” her lawyer stated.
