The political atmosphere in Nigeria became tense on Monday following reports that the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) raided the Abuja residence of former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, over alleged links to a purported coup plot.
According to multiple online sources, Sylva’s Maitama home in Abuja was searched by security operatives at the weekend, leading to the reported arrest of his brother, identified as Paga Sylva.
The reports, which surfaced across social media platforms and several independent blogs, claim the former Bayelsa State governor was under investigation for allegedly funding or backing a plot to topple the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Some outlets further allege that Sylva fled Nigeria through the creeks to Senegal, and may be heading to Argentina, where he allegedly has business interests. These claims, however, remain unverified by credible national dailies or government sources as of the time of this report.
Military Denies Coup Allegation
Reacting to circulating claims about an attempted coup, the Nigerian Armed Forces through its Director of Defence Information described the reports as “entirely false,” insisting that no large-scale coup plot or mass arrest of officers took place.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain loyal to the Constitution and committed to protecting the country’s democratic governance,” the statement emphasized.
This official position creates a sharp contrast with ongoing social media narratives alleging that some senior officers have been detained and questioned in connection with the supposed plot.
Unconfirmed Financial Allegations
In yet another twist, some unverified reports allege that ₦46 billion was traced to accounts linked to the former minister — a claim that has not been substantiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the DIA.
As of publication time, neither Timipre Sylva nor his media team have issued an official response to the allegations.
Background on Timipre Sylva
Timipre Sylva served as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources under former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2019 to 2023, and as Governor of Bayelsa State from 2008 to 2012.
He was also the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the Bayelsa governorship election in November 2023.
Caution Urged Over Circulating Claims
Security analysts have urged the public and media outlets to exercise restraint and await official confirmation before drawing conclusions, warning that unverified reports could heighten political tension.
Headlineswave.ng will continue to monitor developments and update this story as more credible information emerges from government agencies and verified sources
