The camp of former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, has faulted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for sealing his Maitama residence in Abuja, describing the move as an abuse of power and a violation of due process.
Sylva’s Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Julius Bokoru, in a strongly worded statement on Monday, said EFCC operatives arrived at the property without prior notice, a warrant or any form of legal documentation authorising their actions.
The statement, titled “A grave breach of decency: EFCC’s attempted raid and defacement of Sylva’s family home,” said the commission’s officials spray-painted the walls of the residence with the inscription “EFCC — Keep Off,” creating the impression that the former minister was a fugitive.
Bokoru noted that the development was the latest in a series of actions targeting Sylva, who was declared wanted by the EFCC in November over an alleged $14.8 million fraud. His home had earlier been raided by military intelligence officers, who arrested his brother and driver over alleged links to an unsuccessful coup plot.
He recalled that Sylva, through his lawyers, had written to the EFCC last week proposing an agreed date to appear before the commission, wondering why officials still resorted to what he called “aggressive and unnecessary theatrics.”
“No letter, no subpoena, no warrant, no notification - nothing that aligns with lawful procedure,” Bokoru said. “What transpired today was a shocking affront to decency and the most basic standards expected of an institution acting in the national interest.”
He stressed that the affected residence houses Sylva’s children, relatives and domestic workers, many of whom have been unable to leave the country due to ongoing investigations.
“To invade that space without warning is to inflict fear on innocent people with no connection to political rivalries,” he said. “Where are his children expected to seek refuge? How long must they endure this fear?”
Bokoru dismissed suggestions that President Bola Tinubu sanctioned the action, insisting the incident “has all the markings of local political hostilities being disguised as federal directive.”
He added that Sylva had served the country with loyalty and calmness, maintaining dignity in the face of recent pressures.
Bokoru also drew attention to the continued detention of several aides and security staff - including Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Lusa Paul, Musa Mohammed and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba - who he said had been held for weeks over unclear allegations.
“Their continued detention is unjust and symbolic of a deeper injustice playing out,” he said.
Despite the tensions, Bokoru expressed confidence that justice would eventually prevail: “Nigeria has weathered storms of intimidation before. We believe truth will outlast malice, and this moment too shall pass.”
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