Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and ex-Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva, has broken his silence on allegations linking him to an alleged coup plot, describing the reports as false, malicious, and politically motivated.
The claims originated from an online publication by Sahara Reporters, which alleged that some political figures were working to destabilize Nigeria. Sylva, however, strongly refuted the story, insisting it was a calculated attempt to tarnish his image and incite unnecessary tension in the country.
In a separate reaction, the Defence Headquarters also dismissed the coup claims, maintaining that there is no evidence of any plan to overthrow the government. The military authorities urged Nigerians to disregard the report and avoid spreading unfounded rumours capable of threatening national stability.
Meanwhile, a statement released by Sylva Staunch Supporters (Powered by CPO) condemned Sahara Reporters’ continued coverage of the story despite official clarification from the military. The group described the publication as “an act of deliberate misinformation” and questioned the motives behind it.
“It begs the question: Is Sahara Reporters now the official news outlet of the military, or does it have another agenda?” the group asked. “The persistence in pushing a debunked narrative is becoming increasingly embarrassing.”
The statement also highlighted Sylva’s long-standing loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly during recent re-election campaigns in Bayelsa State.
The group warned media organizations against publishing unverified and sensational stories that could mislead the public or harm reputations. They urged journalists to uphold ethical standards and prioritize accuracy over sensationalism.
“The public deserves accurate and unbiased information,” the statement read. “Media organizations must act responsibly and verify their claims before publication.”
According to the group, Sahara Reporters’ actions amount to irresponsible journalism that threatens public trust in the media and national institutions. They called on relevant authorities and the journalism community to condemn the spread of fake news and protect Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Why This Matters
The controversy underscores the growing concern over fake news and political misinformation in Nigeria’s media space. As political tensions rise ahead of 2026, observers warn that unchecked false reports could erode trust in democratic institutions and fuel public unrest.
