Timipre Sylva Allegedly Funded Failed Coup Against Tinubu

Daily Sun reports that Nigerian security and financial crime agencies have traced large sums linked to an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu to accounts linked to former Bayelsa State governor Timipre Sylva, citing multiple security sources.

According to Daily Sun, operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), working with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), followed a trail of transactions they believe were intended to finance an aborted coup.

Confessional statements from the arrested officers led DIA investigators to scrutinise transfers and holdings allegedly tied to Sylva. The report further alleges that the funds were earmarked to acquire drones and other technology for a largely remote operation that would limit the use of conventional troops.

Daily Sun also reports that when the presidency was first briefed, President Tinubu requested documentary evidence before accepting that a serious attempt had been made. The dossier compiled by the DIA, NFIU, and EFCC was said to have provided that proof, convincing the president of the gravity of the plot, according to the paper’s sources.

In a separate development, Daily Sun notes that security operatives searched Sylva’s Abuja residence. While early speculation suggested a military raid, the newspaper reports that individuals “believed to be” from the Department of State Services (DSS) carried out the operation. The authorities have not issued an official statement naming agencies or suspects.

Timipre Sylva, who is currently abroad, has denied any involvement. In a statement quoted by Daily Sun and issued by his media aide, Chief Julius Bokoru, the former petroleum minister and ex-governor said the reports are false and politically motivated. 

He accused “desperate” politicians of weaponising rumours ahead of the 2027 cycle and reaffirmed his support for President Tinubu. Bokoru acknowledged that the Abuja home was searched and said significant damage occurred, adding that Sylva and his wife were out of the country on medical and professional engagements at the time.

According to Daily Sun, investigators have concluded their inquiries and are preparing to submit findings to the presidency. The military is expected, in the coming days, to make aspects of the case public and proceed with a General Court Martial where appropriate, the paper adds.

Further reports that the DSS has arrested a man in Rivers State, identified as Innocent Chukwuma, after social-media posts calling for the military to “suspend the Nigerian government.” The suspect is said to be cooperating with investigators.

As of now, all claims linking Sylva to coup financing are allegations reported by Daily Sun and attributed to unnamed security sources. Legal analysts caution that due process, transparent disclosures, and forensic banking evidence will be essential before any definitive conclusions can be drawn.