Former Bayelsa State Governor and Ex-Minister of State for Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva, has written to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), requesting a mutually agreed date to appear before the agency. Sylva’s letter, dated November 24, 2025, but received on November 26, challenges the EFCC’s declaration of him as wanted over an alleged $14.8 million fraud.
He explained that he is currently undergoing urgent medical treatment for a life-threatening condition and is consulting his medical team to determine if he can safely attend the EFCC. Sylva emphasized that he is willing to cooperate fully once medically cleared, stressing that only a living person can responsibly respond to allegations, which he firmly denies.
Recalling recent events, Sylva described the distress caused to his family, associates, and supporters following an alleged plot linking him to an attempt to undermine presidential authority. He criticized a dramatic operation at his residence where several staff members were detained and highlighted that he had previously been invited by the EFCC in December 2024, complied fully, and was granted administrative bail.
He expressed surprise at being publicly declared wanted despite his history of cooperation and law-abiding conduct, noting that claims of jumping bail were false. Sylva suggested that the EFCC’s actions risk being seen as politically motivated, stating he appears to have been targeted since the start of the current administration.