IYC Condemns EFCC’s Sealing of Former Minister Timipre Sylva’s Abuja Home
By Ndu Samuel
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide issued a press release on earlier today condemning the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) sealing of the Maitama residence of former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva. The operation, carried out without a warrant, subpoena or prior notice, was described by the council as a “flagrant disregard for constitutional rights and a blatant violation of due process.”
In the statement, signed by Amb (Dr) Binebai Yerin Princewill, spokesperson for IYC Worldwide, the group said no formal charge, indictment or credible evidence has been presented to justify the action against Sylva. “No crime has been established – the Ijaw nation awaits answers,” the release read, adding that Sylva, who served under the late President Muhammadu Buhari, is being subjected to a “witch‑hunt” lacking legal foundation.
The council highlighted what it called selective targeting of an Ijaw leader, noting that while Sylva’s properties have been sealed, other former ministers from the Buhari administration allegedly involved in larger financial irregularities have not faced similar measures. The IYC warned that such selective enforcement could suggest ethnic bias in the current anti‑corruption drive.
While reaffirming support for lawful enforcement, the IYC stressed that agencies must operate within the law, respecting the right to a fair hearing, presumption of innocence and the sanctity of the home. The sealing, which involved spray‑painting the walls with “EFCC – Keep Off” and denying occupants access, was said to undermine the principles the EFCC claims to uphold.
The action has left Sylva’s family and staff “effectively encircled” and unable to leave the country freely. Four of his aides—Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Paul, Musa Mohammed and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba—remain in detention without charge, a situation the council described as an affront to natural justice.
The IYC called on the EFCC and relevant authorities to:
1. Produce the legal instrument authorising the sealing and disclose any supporting evidence, upholding Sylva’s right to a fair hearing.
2. Halt further intrusive measures against Sylva, his family and staff until a transparent investigation is completed.
3. Release the detained aides immediately or formally charge them in accordance with due process.
4. Ensure law‑enforcement agencies are not used as tools for political or ethnic vendettas.
The council warned that selective justice erodes public trust and weakens democratic institutions. It urged the National Assembly, the Presidency and all Nigerians to reject any form of persecution based on ethnicity or political affiliation.
The IYC said it will continue to monitor the situation and may mobilise its members and partners to defend justice and equity. It expressed hope that truth and fairness will prevail and that Sylva will be treated in a manner befitting his service to the nation. The release also referenced the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, recalling a similar case that remains “fresh in our memories.”
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