The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has praised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for arresting former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, describing the move as a "bold step" in Nigeria's ongoing anti-corruption campaign.

However, the People's Democratic Party (PDP), the ruling party in Delta State, condemned the arrest, calling it a "political witch hunt" by the APC-led federal government aimed at silencing opposition voices.

In a statement by APC State Publicity Secretary Valentine Onojeghuo, the party urged the EFCC to widen its investigation to include other officials suspected of financial mismanagement. "Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa's administration has long been plagued by allegations of financial misconduct and diversion of public funds, which must now be fully addressed," Onojeghuo said.

Onojeghuo added that the arrest should act as a deterrent to other public officials, asserting, "The era of impunity is over. No one is above the law, regardless of their position or connections." He further stressed the importance of ensuring that public resources serve the people rather than personal interests, saying, "This is a vital step towards restoring public trust."

In a prompt response, Timothy Osadolor, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, argued that Delta State has not reported any missing funds and insisted that detaining Okowa without formal charges undermines democratic principles.

Okowa, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023, was detained on allegations of embezzling state funds, including the suspected diversion of 13 percent derivation funds designated for Delta State's development. According to the EFCC, the alleged misappropriation involves approximately N1.3 trillion.