The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared Timipre Sylva, former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and ex-Governor of Bayelsa State, wanted over an alleged $14.8 million fraud linked to funds provided by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

In a statement issued on Monday by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity, the EFCC said Sylva is wanted for conspiracy and dishonest conversion of funds injected by the NCDMB into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for the construction of a refinery.

The anti-graft agency noted that Sylva, 61, hails from Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, and that the notice followed a warrant of arrest issued by the Lagos State High Court on November 6, 2025.

“The public is hereby notified that TIMIPRE SYLVA, a former Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, and former Governor of Bayelsa State, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the EFCC in an alleged case of Conspiracy and Dishonest Conversion of $14,859,257,” the statement read.

The EFCC urged anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact its offices nationwide or call 08093322644, email [email protected], or report to the nearest police station.

The development comes days after SaharaReporters revealed that soldiers attached to the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) raided Sylva’s residence in Maitama, Abuja, in connection with an alleged coup plot currently under investigation.

Sources said the operation also extended to Sylva’s Bayelsa home, and that one of his relatives was detained during the raid.

However, Sylva’s aide, Julius Bokoru, dismissed claims that his principal fled the country, stating that the former minister is abroad for medical treatment and professional engagements.

“Despite sustained efforts, I have been unable to ascertain the reasons or authorisation for the raid,” Bokoru said, adding that the Abuja residence suffered “significant damage” during the military operation.

The EFCC’s declaration marks a major twist in the unfolding investigation, as authorities intensify efforts to locate the former Bayelsa governor.