Timi Frank, the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed his support for the arrest of Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the immediate past governor of Delta State, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged fraud. In a statement released from Abuja on Wednesday, Frank hailed the arrest but called for further action against other former governors, especially the G-5 Governors, who also face allegations of financial misconduct.
Frank emphasized that while he supports the EFCC’s efforts to combat corruption, he would not tolerate what he perceives as political vendetta targeting Okowa, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He urged the EFCC to act impartially and investigate the pending fraud cases against other former governors who were contemporaries of Okowa.
The G-5 Governors, comprising Nyesom Wike (Rivers), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Samuel Ortom (Benue), and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), were all accused of various financial misdeeds during their time in office. Frank called on the EFCC to arrest and prosecute these individuals, as they too are reportedly subjects of fraud investigations. He also raised concerns about an alleged memo from the presidency instructing the EFCC to avoid prosecuting these governors as part of a political agreement made during the 2023 general election.
Frank criticized the selective justice shown towards Okowa, asserting that if the EFCC fails to prosecute the G-5 Governors, it would undermine public trust in the anti-corruption agency and lead to accusations of political bias. He also mentioned that officials within President Tinubu’s government, such as Minister of Works David Umahi and Minister of State for Defence Mohammed Bello Matawale, are allegedly involved in corruption and should be investigated as well.
Calling for a more transparent and unbiased approach, Frank urged the EFCC to uphold the rule of law and demonstrate impartiality in its investigation and prosecution processes. He also warned that failing to address the cases involving the G-5 Governors and other accused officials could damage Nigeria’s international reputation and jeopardize cooperation with foreign partners in fighting corruption.
Frank concluded by stressing the importance of the EFCC maintaining public trust by investigating and prosecuting all corruption cases, regardless of political affiliation, and ensuring fairness and transparency throughout its processes.
