The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has called on former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, to appear before the agency for questioning over an alleged $14.86 million fraud case.
The commission made the demand after Sylva accused the anti-graft agency of operating in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress. Responding to the allegation on Monday, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale maintained that Sylva had already been declared wanted and should report to the commission.
The development came shortly after Sylva announced his resignation from the APC, ending years of association with the party he helped establish. In a resignation letter dated August 31, 2026, the former governor said he reached the decision after consultations with family members, political allies and supporters.
Sylva criticised the current state of the APC, arguing that the party had drifted away from the principles on which it was founded. According to him, the administration that emerged under the party had failed to meet the expectations of many Nigerians and showed little sign of meaningful reform.
He also expressed concerns about what he described as increasing political influence on state institutions. Explaining why the EFCC was copied in his resignation letter, Sylva alleged that the agency had become involved in partisan matters and suggested that his departure from the APC could lead to intensified scrutiny of him and his associates.
The former governor stated that despite potential consequences, he was prepared to stand by his decision. He further expressed optimism that Nigerians would use future elections to determine a new political direction for the country.
The EFCC had declared Sylva wanted in November 2025 over allegations involving conspiracy and the alleged diversion of approximately $14.86 million. The former governor has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Sylva has also been linked to separate investigations concerning allegations of conspiracy, money laundering and other offences.
Authorities have identified him as a key figure in an ongoing probe, though he remains innocent under the law unless proven guilty by a competent court.
Reports indicate that investigators traced substantial funds to a company allegedly connected to him as part of their inquiries. However, legal proceedings relating to the allegations are still ongoing.
In addition, a Federal High Court in Abuja earlier granted an interim forfeiture order on several properties linked to the former governor following an application by the EFCC.
Sylva served as governor of Bayelsa State between 2007 and 2012 and later held the position of Minister of State for Petroleum Resources during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
