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 for alleged involvement in financial crimes amounting to over $14.8 million.
According to a public notice issued by the EFCC and signed by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity, the former minister is being sought in connection with a case of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257. The funds in question were reportedly part of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board’s (NCDMB) investment into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited, earmarked for the construction of a refinery project.
The anti-graft agency stated that the action follows a warrant issued on November 6, 2025, by the Federal High Court in Lagos. Sylva, aged 61, hails from Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The EFCC urged the public to provide credible information regarding the former governor’s whereabouts, assuring that such intelligence would be treated with confidentiality. The Commission also encouraged anyone with relevant details to contact its offices nationwide: in cities including Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, Kaduna, Enugu, Benin, Ibadan, Uyo, Gombe, Ilorin, Sokoto, and Maiduguri, or to reach out via 08093322644 or info@efcc.gov.ng.
Sylva’s case, represent one of the most significant financial crime allegations involving a former cabinet member in recent years.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice and holding public officials accountable for the management of national resources.
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