EFCC, Interpol Hunt Timipre Sylva Over $14.8 Million Fraud Allegations

EFCC, Interpol Hunt Timipre Sylva Over $14.8 Million Fraud Allegations

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), with support from Interpol and other international law enforcement agencies, is intensifying efforts to locate former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, over allegations of $14.8 million fraud linked to the Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited project.

EFCC declared Sylva wanted in November 2025 following a Federal High Court arrest warrant. The charges include conspiracy and dishonest conversion of public funds, with the commission alleging that Sylva conspired to misappropriate money provided by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) for refinery construction.

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Sources say the EFCC has placed Sylva on Interpol’s watchlist while working closely with the Department of State Services (DSS) to track his movements abroad. Security operatives emphasized that Sylva “cannot hide forever” and is expected to face the commission soon.

Sylva has reportedly been outside Nigeria, allegedly in the United Kingdom for medical reasons. In November 2025, he wrote to the EFCC requesting a mutually agreed date to appear, citing a life-threatening medical condition but insisting on his intention to cooperate once medically cleared.

In addition to the fraud probe, Sylva has been linked to allegations involving a failed coup plot, prompting raids by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) at his Abuja residence. Sylva and his associates have consistently denied any involvement.

Authorities have warned that Sylva could be arraigned in absentia if he does not return to Nigeria to face the charges. The case has drawn attention from lawmakers and political observers, some of whom are calling for broader oversight and transparency in the investigation.

The ongoing hunt highlights Nigeria’s determination to tackle high-profile financial crimes and enforce accountability, even when suspects are operating internationally.

EFCC, Interpol Hunt Timipre Sylva Over $14.8 Million Fraud Allegations