November 11, (THEWILL) — Julius Bokoru, Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, has described the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) recent declaration of the former Bayelsa State governor as politically motivated.
THEWILL reports that the EFCC on Monday declared Sylva wanted over alleged conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257 belonging to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for the construction of a refinery.
The move follows a warrant of arrest issued by the Lagos State High Court on November 6, 2025.
Reacting in a statement issued on Monday, Bokoru criticised the EFCC’s action as “hasty and unprofessional,” alleging that the commission did not reach out to Sylva through any formal correspondence before making the announcement.
He described the declaration as “a carefully orchestrated public spectacle,” and “a digital proclamation designed to inflame public opinion and manufacture hostility.”
According to him, the switch from earlier political insinuations to financial allegations suggests a deliberate attempt to discredit the former minister.
“What was once framed as a ‘coup matter’ has now quietly transformed into a financial accusation. The same forces that tried to malign Sylva politically are now reemerging as anti-corruption crusaders,” he said.
Bokoru described the development as a “coordinated political onslaught” aimed at diminishing Sylva’s influence and credibility.
He compared Sylva’s plight to the biblical story of Job, saying each allegation fades only for another to emerge.
Reaffirming Sylva’s commitment to due process, he disclosed that the former minister is currently undergoing medical treatment in the United Kingdom and will honour the EFCC invitation upon his return.
“Chief Sylva, in line with his respect for lawful institutions, will return to answer any questions once his health permits,” he assured.
The aide also defended the refinery project linked to the allegation, insisting it is legitimate and transparently executed.
“Chief Sylva has not diverted any funds nor betrayed the trust reposed in him. The refinery project is verifiable, documented, and traceable,” Bokoru stated.
He added that the EFCC’s action is part of a long-running campaign to tarnish Sylva’s image.
“At this point, one may joke that only the Boys’ Brigade and Man O’ War remain uninvited to this theatre of persecution,” he quipped.
Bokoru urged supporters of the former minister to remain calm, expressing confidence that the truth will eventually prevail.
“This, too, shall pass. Those driving this campaign of defamation will not succeed. Light will always outshine darkness,” he said.
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