Report: Financial Trails Link Former Governor to Alleged Coup Plot Investigation

New details have emerged from the probe into an alleged plot to overthrow Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. Security sources report that investigators traced financial pathways connected to the purported plan to accounts associated with Timipre Sylva, the former governor of Bayelsa State and an ex-Minister of Petroleum.

A joint investigation by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) allegedly tracked significant funds related to the foiled plan to Sylva's accounts. Reports indicate that detained military officers identified Sylva as a key financier.

Sources state that President Tinubu initially approached the findings with skepticism, demanding concrete proof. This request reportedly led to the expanded, multi-agency financial review that uncovered the suspect transactions. The collective evidence from the DIA, NFIU, and EFCC is said to have convinced the President that the threat was substantive.

Alleged Plot Details and Denials

According to the investigation, several military officers, including a Brigadier General, Colonels, and a Captain, have confessed to roles in the plot. They allegedly described a plan emphasizing drones and advanced technology over large troop movements. Sylva, purportedly discontented with his exclusion from the current administration, was also accused of involvement in illicit activities in the Niger Delta.

In connection with the probe, operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) raided Sylva’s Abuja residence. Sources confirm the raid was for intelligence gathering, contradicting earlier reports of military involvement.

Sylva has vehemently denied all allegations. In a statement released by his media aide, Julius Bokoru, he labeled the claims a politically motivated attack ahead of the 2027 elections. The statement confirmed damage during the DSS raid but noted no warrant was presented. Sylva and his wife were abroad at the time, with the former governor reportedly receiving medical care in the UK before a professional engagement in Malaysia. The statement reiterated Sylva’s history of democratic participation and loyalty to the ruling APC, denying any involvement in plots against the government.