EFCC Summons Ex-Governor Timipre Sylva Over Alleged $14.86m Fraud
By The Analyst Online Media
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has directed former Bayelsa State Governor and former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, to make himself available for questioning over an alleged financial crime involving $14.86 million.
The development was confirmed by EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, who said the former governor should report to the Commission in connection with the ongoing investigation.
The latest summons comes amid renewed controversy surrounding Sylva, who recently resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing concerns over the direction of the party and the performance of the Federal Government.
Sylva has previously criticised the EFCC, questioning what he described as the Commission's conduct in politically sensitive cases. He has also alleged that the anti-graft agency has been used selectively against political opponents—an allegation the Commission has rejected.
$14.86m Investigation
The EFCC had earlier declared Sylva wanted in connection with an investigation involving the alleged diversion and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257.
The investigation centres on funds reportedly associated with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB)'s investment in Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited, a company linked to a proposed refinery project.
The Commission's position is that Sylva has questions to answer regarding the movement and utilisation of the funds.
However, the allegations remain allegations. Sylva has not been convicted of the alleged offences, and he is entitled to the presumption of innocence until a court determines otherwise.
Political Fallout
Sylva's latest confrontation with the EFCC comes against the backdrop of his resignation from the APC, a decision that has generated considerable political attention.
In his resignation communication, the former governor expressed dissatisfaction with the direction of the ruling party and criticised aspects of the Tinubu administration.
The timing of the EFCC's renewed call has therefore attracted political interest, particularly given Sylva's claim that leaving the APC could expose him to intensified pressure from government agencies.
The EFCC, however, maintains that its investigations are based on alleged financial offences and are not driven by political considerations.
Sylva's next response to the Commission's directive is expected to determine the immediate direction of the investigation, as authorities seek clarification on the transactions at the centre of the alleged $14.86 million financial misconduct.