Sylva writes EFCC, seeks date to appear over ‘$14.8m fraud’ probe

Chief Timipre Sylva, former Minister of State for Petroleum, has written to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), requesting that a definite date be fixed for him to appear before the agency over an alleged $14.8 million fraud.

In the letter dated November 24 and acknowledged by the EFCC on November 26, Sylva expressed strong concern over the Commission’s move to declare him wanted, insisting he has never attempted to evade investigation.

He informed the Commission that he is currently undergoing urgent medical treatment for a life-threatening condition and is in consultation with his doctors to determine the earliest safe date for appearance.

“I most humbly request that a mutually agreed date be set—subject to medical clearance—to enable me appear physically. I trust the objective of your invitation is not to harm me but to investigate an alleged crime, which I firmly deny,” he wrote.

Sylva also referenced what he described as recent “distressing” events, including the armed raid on his Abuja residence, during which several aides—drivers, security personnel, and domestic staff—were allegedly arrested and remain in custody.

The former minister said he was “shocked” at the EFCC’s public declaration of him as a wanted person on November 10, noting that he had previously honoured an invitation in December 2024, was granted administrative bail on self-recognition, and received no further communication from the agency thereafter.

“I have never declined or evaded any lawful invitation. The claim that I jumped bail is incorrect. No such bail condition existed or was violated by me,” he stated.

Sylva warned that the unfolding actions of the EFCC risk creating the impression of political persecution, stressing that he has always been willing to cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities.

“The recent actions may be misinterpreted as a political witch-hunt by many, especially considering that I appear to have been a target since the beginning of this administration,” he added.