Former Minister Timipre Sylva Requests New Date to Appear Before EFCC

Cites Life-Threatening Medical Condition

Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, has asked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to agree on a new date for him to appear before investigators over alleged corruption.

In a letter dated November 24 and acknowledged by the EFCC on November 26, Sylva cited urgent medical treatment for a life-threatening condition as the reason he could not comply with the agency’s invitation. He requested that a mutually agreed date be set, subject to medical clearance, so he can appear physically to respond to the allegations.

Sylva denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing that only someone alive and well can responsibly respond to the allegations. He described the past weeks as placing “extraordinary and bewildering” pressure on his family, close associates, and aides.

He recounted that the situation escalated from an unverified accusation linking him to a plot against President Bola Tinubu to a military operation at his private residence, during which some of his staff were arrested and remain in detention.

Sylva also addressed the EFCC’s claim that he had been declared wanted in connection with an alleged $14.8 million fraud. He said he had previously complied with an EFCC invitation in December 2024, was granted self-recognition bail, and had not received further correspondence. He stressed that he has never declined or evaded any law enforcement invitation and denied ever jumping bail.

EFCC Fires Officer Accused of Stealing N22 Million in Exhibits

“For the sake of clarity, propriety, and historical records, I must respectfully state that no such incident occurred nor was any such bail condition in existence or ever violated by me,” he wrote.

Sylva warned that the recent developments could be misinterpreted by the public and suggested that some may view the actions as a political witch-hunt. He expressed concern that he has appeared to be a target since the beginning of the current administration.

The former Bayelsa governor requested that the EFCC work with him to set a new date for his appearance, ensuring that he can attend while receiving the necessary medical treatment.