A fresh controversy erupted on Monday after officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reportedly attempted to enter and marked the Maitama residence of former Bayelsa State Governor, Chief Timipre Sylva, with red paint bearing the inscription: “EFCC — KEEP OFF.”
According to a statement issued by Chief Julius Bokoru, Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to Chief Sylva, the action was carried out without prior notice, a warrant, or any form of official communication. The incident, he said, amounted to an “affront to decency” and a breach of lawful procedure.
Bokoru alleged that the EFCC’s actions caused distress to members of Sylva’s family and domestic staff, who have been staying in the residence for weeks. He said the markings further heightened what he described as an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty for those within the property.
The statement also distanced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from the incident, insisting that the President has always upheld due process and fairness. Bokoru suggested that the EFCC’s actions may be linked to local political rivalries rather than directives from the federal government.
He further raised concern over the continued detention of four individuals—Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Lusa Paul, Musa Mohammed, and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba—who he said have been held for weeks on “vague and insubstantial allegations.” Their prolonged detention, he argued, reflects a broader pattern of injustice.
Despite the tension surrounding the episode, Bokoru expressed confidence that the situation would eventually be resolved lawfully, adding that Nigeria has a history of overcoming institutional overreach and political pressure.
The EFCC has yet to issue an official response to the claims.
