The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has escalated its pursuit of former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, declaring him wanted internationally and securing his placement on multiple global security watchlists.
International Manhunt Launched
The EFCC obtained a Federal High Court warrant on November 6, 2025, authorizing security agencies to arrest the former Bayelsa governor and present him before investigators. This legal move triggered an international response, with Sylva now appearing on the watchlists of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation, Interpol, the United Kingdom's Metropolitan Police, and similar agencies in Canada.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the development in a public notice released on Monday, stating that Sylva faces allegations of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257. The substantial funds were reportedly provided by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board specifically for the Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited project.
Political Persecution Claims Surface
Julius Bokoru, Sylva's Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, has vehemently denied the allegations, characterizing the EFCC's actions as politically motivated. "No formal communication was extended to him, no established protocol observed, only a sudden digital proclamation designed to inflame public sentiment," Bokoru stated.
The aide revealed that Sylva is currently in the United Kingdom for medical reasons and pledged that the former minister would honor the EFCC's invitation upon his return. Bokoru further questioned the timing and nature of the charges, noting the curious transformation from earlier whispers about a "coup matter" to financial allegations.
Broader Investigation Context
The EFCC's declaration comes amidst a separate House of Representatives investigation into a $35 million investment by NCDMB in the same refinery project that failed to materialize. Lawmaker Billy Osawaru had previously moved a motion expressing concern about the whereabouts of Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited, despite receiving substantial federal funding over five years ago.
According to EFCC sources, Sylva had been voluntarily visiting the commission's headquarters before abruptly ceasing his appearances. "The case has been on for a long time. The former minister was visiting our office until he later stopped," a senior official disclosed.
The development marks another chapter in Sylva's controversial political career, which recently included a raid on his Abuja residence by soldiers on October 25 over alleged coup plot connections. During that incident, his younger brother and driver were detained while Sylva was reportedly abroad.
