The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared Timipre Sylva, former Minister of Petroleum Resources and ex-Governor of Bayelsa State, wanted by authorities.

Sylva is wanted in connection with alleged conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257, funds injected by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for the construction of a refinery.

On November 6, 2025, the EFCC secured a Federal High Court warrant for Sylva’s arrest in Lagos. Justice D.I. Dipeolu authorised the warrant, stating that EFCC or any law enforcement officer is empowered to arrest Sylva and bring him before the Commission to face the charges.

The EFCC has appealed to the public to provide any information regarding Sylva’s location. Citizens are urged to contact EFCC Zonal Directorates, the nearest police station, or other security agencies to assist in his apprehension.

This development marks a significant step in ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to investigate alleged financial crimes in the oil and gas sector, highlighting the Commission’s commitment to prosecuting high-profile corruption cases.