The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) sealed the Maitama, Abuja residence of former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, on December 8, 2025, escalating scrutiny over alleged diversion of $14.8 million allocated for the Brass Refinery project in Bayelsa State. Operatives reportedly spray-painted "EFCC - Keep Off" in red on the property walls without a warrant or prior notice, encircling Sylva's children, relatives, and staff inside, following prior raids and arrests of aides like Paganengigha Anagha and driver Friday Lusa Paul.
Julius Bokuro, Sylva's Special Assistant on Media, condemned the "grave breach of decency" as political vendetta masked as federal action, denying fugitive status and noting Sylva's last EFCC appearance in December 2024 without further summons. He decried the intrusion terrorizing innocents, insisting Sylva's patriotism including support for President Tinubu remains unwavering amid Bayelsa rivalries. A November 6, 2025, Lagos Federal High Court warrant underpins the probe.
Sylva, ex-Bayelsa governor, faces ongoing disputes post his $1.5 billion fraud clearance; EFCC silent on details. Aide vows justice will prevail.