Timipre Sylva Confirms Military Raid on Abuja Home, Denies Coup Link

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and ex-Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva, has confirmed that his Abuja residence was recently raided by soldiers investigating an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking through a statement issued on Tuesday, Sylva described the operation as “a shocking and unnecessary show of force”, adding that he has no connection whatsoever to any plot or subversive activity.

According to sources, troops reportedly stormed his home in the Maitama district of Abuja, seizing documents and electronic devices as part of ongoing military investigations into what security officials have described as “unlawful communications” within the ranks.

Sylva said the incident occurred while he was away from the property and that his brother, who was present during the raid, was briefly detained for questioning. The former governor expressed confidence that the truth would clear his name, emphasising his record of service under successive democratic administrations.

“I have never participated in or supported any unconstitutional action. My commitment to Nigeria’s democracy is absolute,”
Sylva stated.

He urged the authorities to conduct their investigations “with fairness, transparency and respect for the rule of law.”

Military sources have not publicly commented on Sylva’s statement. The Defence Headquarters earlier confirmed multiple raids in connection with the alleged coup probe, but declined to identify those affected.

The Presidency has also maintained silence on individual cases, reiterating only its confidence in the military’s internal processes.

Observers note that the raid on Sylva’s residence underscores the sensitivity and scope of the current investigations, which have already seen the detention of more than 40 serving officers.