The Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to former Minister Timipre Sylva, Julius Bokoru, has condemned the sealing of the former minister’s Maitama home in Abuja by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a statement issued yesterday, Bokoru described the action as unlawful and carried out without adherence to due process.
According to him, the EFCC acted “without a single letter, without a subpoena, without a warrant, without notification, and without even the most basic adherence to lawful process.”
He added, “No courtesy. No procedure. No humanity. It is behaviour unbecoming of any institution that claims to act in the national interest. What unfolded today at the Maitama residence of Chief Sylva was nothing short of an affront to decency and a troubling assault on the principles that underpin a civilised society.”
Bokoru alleged that EFCC officers attempted “another aggressive intrusion” into Sylva’s home and proceeded to spray-paint the walls red with the inscription “EFCC – Keep Off,” describing the act as treating the property “as though marking the home of a fugitive rather than that of a respected statesman.”
He further stated that the sealing of the residence has trapped Sylva’s children, relatives, and staff within the property for weeks.
“What deepens the wound is that this is not merely a property; it is the home in which his children, relatives, and staff have been effectively encircled for weeks,” Bokoru said.
He questioned the welfare of those trapped at the residence, asking, “Where are his children expected to go? How long must they endure this atmosphere of fear and uncertainty?”
The aide described the action as arbitrary and vindictive, saying it violates democratic principles and is unbecoming of an institution responsible for upholding justice.
Bokoru insisted that President Bola Tinubu was not involved in what he called “these excesses,” noting that the President has always demonstrated respect for due process and institutional integrity.
He warned that government agencies must not allow themselves to be used as instruments in political contests.
Bokoru also reminded the public that Sylva’s aides and domestic staff — including Paganengigha Anagha, Friday Paul, Musa Mohammed, and Police Officer Reuben Ayuba — have remained in detention for weeks on what he described as vague allegations.
“These are ordinary men, with families and hopes of their own, now caught in a political dragnet that has stripped them of clarity, certainty, and liberty,” he said, adding that their continued detention is unjust and needless.
Despite the developments, Bokoru expressed optimism, stating that Nigeria has weathered many storms and will emerge stronger.
“We believe justice will rise above intimidation, that truth will outlast malice, and that, as with all trials faced with dignity and faith, this too shall pass,” he added.
