The Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to former Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva, Julius Bokoru, has condemned the sealing of Sylva’s Maitama residence in Abuja by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing it as “arbitrary, vindictive, and a violation of democratic principles.”
Bokoru made the remarks in a statement titled, “A Grave Breach of Decency: EFCC’s Attempted Raid and Defacement of Sylva’s Family Home”, released on Monday.
He accused the EFCC of operating outside the bounds of legality, alleging that the raid was conducted without prior notice, legal warrant, or subpoena.
“The agency acted without a single letter, without a subpoena, without a warrant, without notification, and without even the most basic adherence to lawful process,” Bokoru stated.
According to Bokoru, EFCC operatives spray-painted the inscription “EFCC Keep Off” on the property walls, a move he said portrayed Sylva as a fugitive rather than a public servant and respected statesman.
“What deepens the wound is that this is not merely a property; it is the home in which Chief Sylva’s children, relatives, and staff have been effectively encircled for weeks,” he added.
Bokoru also raised alarm over the prolonged detention of Sylva’s aides and domestic staff, including Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Lusa Paul, Musa Mohammed, and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba, calling the detentions unjust and based on “insubstantial allegations.”
He accused the EFCC of being used to settle political scores, stating that such conduct weakens institutions and endangers democracy.
The former minister’s aide suggested that the incident may be rooted in state-level political hostilities rather than federal instruction.
“This action appears to reflect local political rivalries rather than any directive from the Federal Government,” he said.
Bokoru further clarified that President Bola Tinubu had no hand in the EFCC’s actions, reaffirming Sylva’s continued support for the administration and his decades-long record of service.
“In spite of the pain and deep emotional strain of this moment, we remain hopeful. Nigeria has weathered storms before and emerged stronger. We believe justice will rise above intimidation and truth will outlast malice,” he said.
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