Sylva Decries Detention of Aides, Siege on Abuja Home
An aide to former Petroleum Minister Timipre Sylva says four of his principal’s aides remain in detention and that his Abuja residence is under continuous siege, raising concerns about due process and the welfare of the men’s families.
Who’s Detained, And What Happened
The detained individuals include: Paganengigha Anagha (the first arrested), the ex-minister’s driver Musa Mohammed, a police officer Ayuba Reuben, and an escort driver Friday Lusa Paul.
According to a statement by Sylva’s Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Julius Bokoru, the men remain in custody under unclear circumstances, with no formal charges made public. Their continued detention and the 24-hour security presence around the former minister’s home have caused distress to their families.
Context: Raid, Wanted Notice, and Denied Involvement
The current crisis stems from a raid on Sylva’s Maitama, Abuja, residence by operatives believed to be linked to military intelligence, part of a wider investigation that had reportedly tied him to a supposed coup plot.
Sylva, however, has denied any involvement, describing the allegations as politically motivated. He also wrote to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), asking to meet at a mutually agreed date for questioning, citing a “life-threatening medical condition.”
Rights Concerns, Calls for Release
Bokoru described the ongoing detention of the aides and the armed siege as “unjust, unnecessary, and inhumane,” insisting the men are ordinary citizens, fathers and husbands, caught up in what he called a politically charged ordeal. Their families remain anxious and in the dark about their status.
He urged security agencies to allow due process, release the detained staff, and end the constant surveillance of Sylva’s home.
Political Fallout and Public Debate
Supporters of Sylva say the campaign against him may be fueled by internal political rivalries within his party, rather than actual security concerns. They warn that such actions risk undermining democratic values like fairness and transparency, and could tarnish the legacy of a politician who played key roles in national oil-sector reforms and the Niger Delta amnesty initiative.
As the public waits for clarity, the case raises broader questions about the treatment of suspects, respect for civil liberties, and the boundaries of security operations in Nigeria.