Sylva’s Aide Kicks As EFCC Seals Ex-Minister’s Abuja Residence

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has sealed the Abuja residence of former Petroleum Minister and ex‑Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva, located in Maitama.

This followed an ongoing investigation by the anti-graft agency’s into Sylva’s stewardship.

In a statement responding to the matter, Sylva’s Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Julius Bokoru, strongly criticised the operation.

He argued that the EFCC acted without due process, pointing out that no warrant, subpoena, notification, or any formal letter was served prior to the action.

The statement read, “No courtesy. No procedure. No humanity. It is behaviour unbecoming of any institution that claims to act in the national interest. What unfolded today at the Maitama residence of His Excellency, Chief Timipre Sylva, was nothing short of an affront to decency and a troubling assault on the very principles that underpin a civilised society.”

Bokoru described the sealing as “arbitrary and vindictive,” stating the agency spray‑painted “EFCC — Keep Off” on the residence walls and carried out what he called an “assault on the principles that underpin a civilised society.”

According to him, the home, which is occupied by Sylva’s children, relatives, and domestic staff, has been effectively under siege for weeks.

He complained that the action has left them trapped in what he described as a “space of fear and uncertainty,” especially as it appears they have been barred from leaving the country.

“Where, one must ask, are his children expected to go? How long must they endure this atmosphere of fear and uncertainty?”

Bokoru dismissed suggestions that President Bola Tinubu was involved in the sealing, stating, “We remain firmly convinced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not involved in these excesses. Throughout his long and distinguished public life, the President has shown unwavering respect for due process, fairness, and institutional integrity.”

He argued that the move reflects local political rivalry being portrayed as federal action highlighting that it was a “dangerous muddling of partisan ambition with national authority.”

He also drew attention to the plight of Sylva’s aides and domestic staff, naming a few who remain detained.

He described their detention as unjust, based on “insubstantial and nearly non‑existent allegations,” and said their treatment is part of a broader injustice unfolding in the country.

Despite the severity of the situation, Bokoru expressed hope that justice would prevail, declaring: “Truth will outlast malice.”