By Maryjane Austine
Sylva Seeks New Date to Meet EFCC, Denies Shunning Invitation
Former Minister of State for Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva, has written to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission requesting a fresh date to respond to an alleged $14.8m fraud case, saying he is currently undergoing treatment for a life-threatening medical condition.
In the letter, dated 24 November and acknowledged by the EFCC on 26 November, Sylva criticised the commission’s decision to declare him wanted, insisting he had never ignored any lawful summons. He said he was in consultation with his doctors to determine whether he could safely interrupt his treatment to appear before investigators.
He appealed to the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, for a date to be mutually agreed upon, subject to medical approval, emphasising that he wished to appear physically to address the allegations, which he firmly denied.
Read More: EFCC Declares Ex-Minister Timipre Sylva Wanted Over $14.8m Fraud Case
Sylva said the latest development had compounded pressure on him and his family following what he described as an “unverified accusation” linking him to a plot against President Bola Tinubu. He noted that the matter led to a military raid on his Abuja residence, during which several close aides, including drivers, security personnel and domestic staff, were arrested and remain in custody.
He said it was while dealing with the emotional and psychological impact of those incidents that he learnt he had been declared wanted on 10 November over the alleged fraud. According to him, the declaration was surprising because he had previously honoured an EFCC invitation in December 2024 regarding the same investigation. He said he was granted administrative bail on self-recognition and told he would be contacted again, adding that he received no further communication.
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Sylva disputed claims that he jumped bail, saying he never breached any conditions and that no such incident occurred. He expressed concern that recent actions by security agencies could create the impression of a political witch-hunt, arguing that he had appeared to be a target since the start of the current administration.
His Abuja home was recently raided by operatives believed to be linked to military intelligence, during which his younger brother and aide, Paga, along with his driver, were reportedly arrested. His media aide, Julius Bokoru, confirmed the raid but denied any link between Sylva and an alleged coup plot. Bokoru also faulted the EFCC for declaring Sylva wanted publicly, insisting that no fresh invitation was issued prior to the announcement.