Drama In Abuja: EFCC Locks Down Former Minister’s House, Staff React

Julius Bokoru, Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to former Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva, has strongly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) sealing of Sylva’s Maitama residence in Abuja, calling it “arbitrary, vindictive, and a breach of democratic norms.”....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement titled “A Grave Breach of Decency: EFCC’s Attempted Raid and Defacement of Sylva’s Family Home” released on Monday, Bokoru accused the EFCC of acting outside the law, claiming the operation was carried out without prior notice, legal warrant, or subpoena.

“The agency acted without a letter, without a subpoena, without a warrant, without any notification, and without the most basic adherence to due process,” he said.

Bokoru added that EFCC operatives spray-painted the words “EFCC Keep Off” on the walls of the property, portraying Sylva as a fugitive rather than a respected public servant.

“What makes this more distressing is that this is not just a property—it is a home where Chief Sylva’s children, relatives, and staff have been effectively confined for weeks,” he noted.

He also raised concerns about the extended detention of Sylva’s aides and domestic staff, including Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Lusa Paul, Musa Mohammed, and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba, describing the arrests as unjust and based on “baseless allegations.”

Bokoru suggested that the EFCC’s actions may be politically motivated, arguing that they appear linked to local political disputes rather than directives from the Federal Government.

“This action seems to stem from state-level rivalries rather than any instruction from the President,” he stated, while clarifying that President Bola Tinubu had no involvement in the matter. He reaffirmed Sylva’s ongoing support for the administration and highlighted his long-standing record of public service.

“Despite the pain and emotional strain, we remain hopeful. Nigeria has faced challenges before and emerged stronger. We trust that justice will prevail over intimidation, and truth will outlast malice,” Bokoru concluded.