$14.8m Fraud allegation: Sylva seeks new EFCC appointment date
Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, has asked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to fix a new date for him to meet with investigators over an alleged $14.8 million fraud.
In a letter dated November 24, 2025 — and received by the EFCC two days later — Sylva questioned the commission’s decision to declare him wanted, insisting he had not attempted to avoid interrogation.
He explained that he is currently receiving urgent medical care for a life-threatening health condition, adding that he is awaiting clearance from his doctors before appearing in person. According to him, once his medical team confirms he is fit, he is ready to present himself to investigators.
Sylva maintained his innocence and suggested that the situation could be wrongly viewed as politically motivated. He referenced an earlier EFCC operation at his Abuja home during which several members of his staff were arrested and have remained in detention.
The former minister said he had previously complied with an EFCC invitation in December 2024, after which he was granted administrative bail on self-recognition.
The EFCC declared Sylva wanted on November 10, 2025, accusing him of conspiracy and the unlawful conversion of $14.86 million. The funds, according to the agency, were part of an investment by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Ltd for a refinery project.
Sylva’s eventual appearance before investigators is expected to clarify the issues raised. The findings of the ongoing probe will determine the next steps the EFCC may take.
