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Former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, has firmly denied reports linking him to an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
News Week Nigeria reports that the denial was contained in a statement released on Wednesday by Sylva’s Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Julius Bokoru, who described the reports as baseless, politically motivated, and aimed at tarnishing Sylva’s reputation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“False, Malicious, and Politically Driven” – Sylva’s Aide
In the statement, Bokoru dismissed the allegations as “entirely false and malicious,” insisting that his principal remains a loyal democrat and supporter of President Tinubu.
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“Chief Timipre Sylva has no link to any coup plot. His record in politics and governance has been one of dialogue, peace, and democratic engagement,” Bokoru stated.
He accused political opponents of orchestrating a smear campaign to create a false narrative around Sylva’s activities. According to him, the allegation was a calculated attempt to undermine the former minister’s political relevance and public image.
Timipre Sylva denies coup plot, confirms raid on his residence
Bokoru confirmed that operatives suspected to be from the Defence Headquarters recently raided Sylva’s Abuja residence, an incident he said caused extensive property damage.
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“For the avoidance of doubt, it is true that the residence of His Excellency, Chief Timipre Sylva, was recently subjected to a raid by individuals believed to be operatives of the Defence Headquarters. During the operation, considerable damage was inflicted on the property,” he revealed.
The aide noted that neither Sylva nor his family had received an official explanation regarding the raid. He added that the former minister and his wife were not in Nigeria at the time.
“As of my last communication with His Excellency, he was undergoing routine medical checks in the United Kingdom, after which he was scheduled to attend a professional conference in Malaysia,” Bokoru clarified.
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Sylva Reaffirms Loyalty to President Tinubu and APC
Bokoru reiterated that Sylva’s long political career has been defined by his commitment to democracy and constitutional governance. He emphasized that the former governor remains a steadfast supporter of President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Chief Sylva’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC is unwavering. His record speaks for itself, and no amount of political mischief will distort that reality,” he said.
He urged the public to disregard what he described as “coordinated misinformation” spread by individuals desperate to score political points.
Political Context and Background
Chief Timipre Sylva, who served as Bayelsa State Governor from 2007 to 2012 and later as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, remains a significant figure within the APC. Known for his close association with the current administration, Sylva has been a visible advocate of the government’s economic reforms and energy sector policies.
Analysts say the recent allegation may be part of heightened political maneuvering as the country gradually approaches the 2027 elections. Political observers have noted that Sylva’s influence in Bayelsa and his alignment with national party interests make him a potential target for rival groups seeking to weaken the APC’s foothold in the South-South region.
No Official Response from Defence Headquarters
As of press time, the Defence Headquarters had not issued an official statement regarding the reported raid on Sylva’s Abuja residence. Attempts by journalists to obtain comments from military sources were unsuccessful.
Security analysts note that while the military has the authority to conduct operations in certain circumstances, transparency and due process remain essential to prevent the perception of political intimidation or misuse of power.
A History of Political Targeting Allegations
This is not the first time prominent politicians have alleged harassment through raids or unfounded accusations. Over the years, several former public officials have claimed to be victims of politically motivated investigations, especially during periods of heightened political tension.
Observers suggest that such incidents, whether substantiated or not, tend to dominate national discourse and may distract from pressing governance challenges.
Sylva’s Final Word
Chief Sylva, through his aide, reaffirmed that he remains committed to peace, democratic order, and the rule of law.
“His Excellency, Chief Timipre Sylva, is focused on his duties as a party leader and continues to support President Tinubu’s administration in delivering on its Renewed Hope Agenda,” Bokoru concluded.
The statement ends with a call for the public to “ignore fake news and fabricated claims” designed to sow political confusion.
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