The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly sealed the Abuja residence of former Petroleum Minister, Timipre Sylva.
Chief Julius Bokoru, Sylva’s Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, expressed his outrage in a statement on Monday titled, “A grave breach of decency: EFCC’s attempted raid and defacement of Sylva’s family home.”
According to Bokoru, EFCC operatives acted “without a letter, subpoena, warrant, notification, or adherence to due legal process,” adding that the officials spray-painted the words “EFCC — Keep Off” on the residence, giving the impression that the property belonged to a fugitive rather than a respected public figure.
He described the raid as particularly distressing because the home houses Sylva’s children, relatives, and staff, who have reportedly lived under fear and uncertainty for weeks.
Bokoru also accused the EFCC of leveraging its authority to settle political scores, asserting that such actions “undermine not only the credibility of institutions but the very foundation of our democracy.” He suggested the incident reflects local political rivalries more than federal directives.
Concerns were also raised about the ongoing detention of Sylva’s aides and domestic staff — including Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Lusa Paul, Musa Mohammed, and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba — describing their confinement as unjust and based on flimsy allegations.
“Despite the emotional toll and distress, we remain hopeful,” Bokoru said. “Nigeria has faced challenges before and emerged stronger. We trust that justice will prevail and truth will endure.”
He emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had no role in the alleged excesses, highlighting Sylva’s decades of loyal service to the nation and his continued support for the federal government.
In November, the EFCC had declared the former Bayelsa governor wanted over an alleged $14.8 million fraud. Prior to that, military intelligence operatives reportedly raided his Abuja residence, arresting his brother and driver for alleged links to a failed coup attempt.
The media aide criticized the anti-graft agency for failing to summon Sylva before initiating the manhunt. Similarly, Sylva had written to the EFCC last week, requesting a mutually convenient date to honor its invitation.
Do you think the EFCC is acting unjustly, or is it merely executing its duties?
