Nigeria’s history has been marked by a series of military coups, the most recent attempted coup plot uncovered in October 2025
A former southern governor is reportedly under investigation for his alleged involvement in a coup plot targeting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Chief Julius Bokoru, the Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to the former Governor of Bayelsa State Timipre Sylva has confirmed that Sylva’s Abuja residence was recently raided by individuals believed to be operatives of the Defense Headquarters.
Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and ex-Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva, has denied any involvement in an alleged coup plot, describing the reports as false, baseless, and politically motivated.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Chief Julius Bokoru, Sylva was said to have no connection whatsoever to any coup-related activity, insisting that he remains a committed democrat and steadfast supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Bokoru noted that the rumours were part of a smear campaign by political opponents seeking to tarnish Sylva’s image 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,” Bokoru said.
He, however, confirmed that Sylva’s Abuja residence was recently raided by individuals believed to be operatives of the Defense Headquarters, resulting in significant damage to property.
“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 Defense Headquarters. During the operation, considerable damage was inflicted on the property,” he revealed.
Bokoru explained that the reason for the raid was not communicated to Sylva or his family, adding that the former minister and his wife were not in the country when the incident occurred.
“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,” Bokoru stated.
He stressed that Sylva’s political philosophy and public service history have always reflected commitment to democratic ideals 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.