Just In: EFCC Declares Former Minister Wanted
By Ranti Thomas
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and ex-Governor of Bayelsa State, Timipre Sylva, wanted over alleged financial misconduct. The declaration was made public on Monday through an official notice by the Commission. According to the EFCC, Sylva is being sought in connection with an alleged case of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257, funds said to belong to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
The anti-graft agency explained that the funds were part of money invested by the NCDMB into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for the construction of a refinery project in Bayelsa State. The EFCC said investigations linked the former minister to the alleged diversion of the funds, prompting a warrant of arrest issued by the Lagos State High Court on November 6, 2025.
In a detailed notice, the EFCC called on the public to provide any useful information that could lead to Sylva’s arrest. The agency stated that Sylva, 61 years old and a native of Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, has been on its watchlist following ongoing investigations into financial dealings during his tenure as a public official.
“Timipre Sylva, a former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and one-time Governor of Bayelsa State, is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged case of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257 belonging to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB),” the EFCC stated.
“Anyone with information about his whereabouts should reach out to the Commission through any of its offices nationwide or contact the nearest police station or security agency.”
The Commission also provided a contact number and email address for tips, assuring the public that all information shared will be treated confidentially.
Sylva, a prominent political figure from the Niger Delta region, has previously served in several high-profile roles, including as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources between 2019 and 2023. He was also a former governor of Bayelsa State from 2007 to 2012.
As of the time of this report, the EFCC has not disclosed further details about the investigation or the specific findings that led to the arrest warrant. However, the case has sparked public interest due to Sylva’s political influence and his past involvement in the oil and gas sector.