Sylva’s Aide Condemns EFCC for Sealing Former Minister’s Abuja Home

Julius Bokoru, Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, has condemned the sealing of his principal’s Maitama residence in Abuja by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In a statement issued on Monday and titled “A grave breach of decency: EFCC’s attempted raid and defacement of Sylva’s family home,” Bokoru criticised the commission for what he called an unlawful and hostile operation.

Sylva was declared wanted by the EFCC in November over an alleged $14.8 million fraud. Before then, military intelligence operatives had raided his Abuja home, arresting his brother and driver in connection with an alleged failed coup attempt. Despite writing to the EFCC last week seeking a mutually agreed date to honour its invitation, Bokoru said the latest operation was carried out “without a single letter, without a subpoena, without a warrant, without notification, and without even the most basic adherence to lawful process.”

According to the statement, EFCC operatives attempted a fresh intrusion into the residence and spray-painted the walls with the words “EFCC — Keep Off,” an action Bokoru condemned as an affront to decency and a violation of the rights of Sylva’s family. He noted that the house had become the last refuge for the politician’s children, relatives, and staff, many of whom had been confined for weeks. “Where, one must ask, are his children expected to go? How long must they endure this atmosphere of fear and uncertainty?” he queried.

Bokoru accused unnamed political interests of weaponising federal agencies against the former minister but absolved President Bola Tinubu of involvement, insisting the President had always demonstrated respect for due process. He argued that the conduct of the EFCC was “arbitrary” and “vindictive,” warning that the misuse of state institutions undermined democracy. He also drew attention to the continued detention of several of Sylva’s aides and domestic staff Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Lusa Paul, Musa Mohammed, and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba who he said were being held on unclear allegations. Despite the tension, Bokoru expressed hope that justice would prevail and that Nigeria would rise above what he called an unfolding injustice.