The convener of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Edwin Clark has accused the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa of diverting over N1.7 trillion derivation fund meant for the state.

The elder statement made the claims on Wednesday while speaking in an interview and said the former governor “autocratically mismanaged the funds” meant for the development of Delta state.

It would be recalled that the 13 per cent derivation fund comes from the federation account to oil-producing communities through state governments as contained in line with section 162 (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

Clark alleged that Okowa has 13 companies and diverted the 13 per cent (derivation funds) into his 13 firms while sidelining the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission.

He said: “The one paid to Delta state came to N1.767 trillion. Instead of paying 50 per cent (of the N1.760 trillion) to the DESOPADEC as provided by the law, which is automatic, he now held the 13 per cent fund of the entire money, dishing out installmentally and approving every contract the DESOPADEC had awarded.

“So, Okowa has embezzled our money. It’s not even accounted for in his annual budget.”

However, the Statesman disclosed that he has written to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the matter. (New Telegraph: Text, Excluding Headline)