DSS Arraigns Five Over Alleged Attempt To Hide Timipre Sylva’s Whereabouts

Not fewer than five individuals have been arraigned by the Department of State Services before a Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations that they helped conceal the whereabouts of former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva.

The suspects were brought before Justice Peter Lifu on charges linked to conspiracy and allegedly assisting in hiding information about Sylva, who security authorities described as a fugitive currently wanted in connection with an ongoing investigation.

The latest court action marks another major development in the growing legal controversy surrounding the former Bayelsa governor as federal authorities intensify efforts to track his location. 

The five defendants were identified as Reuben Ayuba, Musa Mohammed, Friday Paul, Paganengigha Anagaha and Ayebaifie Suobite.

According to court documents filed by the DSS, the accused allegedly became accessories after the fact by deliberately concealing Sylva’s whereabouts on April 28, 2026, within Abuja.

The agency also accused them of conspiracy to commit felony by working together to prevent security authorities from locating the former minister.

All five defendants pleaded not guilty after the charges were read before the court during Wednesday’s proceedings.

Lawyers representing the accused persons immediately applied for bail, arguing that their clients had remained in custody for several months before being formally arraigned.

Justice Lifu subsequently granted each defendant bail in the sum of ₦5 million with two sureties required to provide proof of tax payment, visible means of livelihood and sworn affidavit of means.

Pending the fulfilment of the bail conditions, the court ordered that all five defendants be remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre, while the matter was adjourned until July 22, 2026, for commencement of trial. 

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