Former Bayelsa State governor and ex-minister of state for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, on Wednesday, dismissed claims linking him to an alleged coup plot.
Sylva’s Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Julius Bakoru, in a statement released on Wednesday, described the reports as unfounded, false, and driven by political motives.
Bakoru said Sylva has no ties to any coup-related activity, emphasising his unwavering commitment to democracy and his steadfast support for President Bola Tinubu.
The statement said the allegations were part of a deliberate smear campaign by political rivals intent on damaging Sylva’s reputation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The allegations are entirely false and malicious. 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,” Bakoru said.
It was confirmed that operatives suspected to be from the Defence Headquarters recently raided Sylva’s Abuja residence, causing extensive property damage.
“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.
Bakoru stated that no explanation was given to Sylva or his family regarding the raid, noting that the former minister and his wife were outside the country at the time of the incident.
“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,” Bakoru stated.
He emphasised that Sylva’s political record and public service have consistently demonstrated his dedication to democratic principles and constitutional governance, reaffirming his loyalty to 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,” the statement concluded.
