Military Investigation Unveils N45 Billion Disbursement from NDDC
A military investigation into an alleged coup plot has reportedly revealed a trail of N45 billion transferred from the bank accounts of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to politically exposed individuals and soldiers detained in connection with the suspected conspiracy to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Earlier this month, reports surfaced that 16 Nigerian Army officers were arrested for allegedly plotting a coup d’etat. Some media outlets linked the detention to the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day by the Federal Government. However, the military denied these allegations, stating that the officers were being investigated for professional misconduct rather than involvement in a coup attempt.
Recent Developments and Raids
Recent reports indicated that some Nigerian Army personnel raided the Abuja residence of ex-governor Timipre Sylva, a former Minister of State for Petroleum, as part of the ongoing probe into the alleged coup plot. The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) investigators questioned top NDDC officials about the origin of the funds, their beneficiaries, and how they were used.
The situation has raised concerns at the NDDC headquarters, where officials are worried about potential links between the commission and the financing of subversive activities. The Federal Government also refuted claims of a coup plot, with the Defence Headquarters labeling such reports as “false, misleading, and malicious.”
Financial Transactions and Suspicion
Investigators are said to be closely examining high-value transactions involving politically exposed persons. One such transaction involved a shoreline project awarded to a former governor in the South-South region, which reportedly included N45 billion. Some of this money is alleged to have been transferred to the accounts of the detained officers.
Security sources confirmed that the interrogation of NDDC officials was part of a broader intelligence-driven inquiry into the movement of public funds. This has led to widespread anxiety among senior NDDC executives, who fear the investigation may expand to include other officials.
Internal Concerns and Speculation
An insider, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the atmosphere within the NDDC as “uneasy” since the news of the interrogation broke. Many directors are now cautious about their movements and communications.
Some executive directors with close ties to the embattled NDDC officials are also concerned about the implications of the investigation. Staff members have expressed fears that the probe could widen and involve more senior officials.
Responses from Sylva and His Team
Sylva, the former Bayelsa governor, has denied any involvement in the alleged coup plot. His Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Chief Julius Bokoru, attributed the rumors to “desperate and self-seeking politicians trying to actualize their ambitions in 2027.” He claimed that the accusations were part of a political strategy to undermine Sylva’s influence ahead of the 2027 elections.
On Wednesday, it was reported that Sylva’s Abuja home was raided by Defence Intelligence Agency operatives investigating the controversial plot. During the raid, Sylva’s younger brother, Paga, and his driver were arrested. However, Sylva and his wife were out of the country at the time.
Bokoru stated that no items were taken from Sylva’s residence during the operation, though some parts of the house were damaged. He also denied any link between Sylva and the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, who was not arrested.
Official Denials and Public Statements
In a statement titled “Setting the record straight on recent false reports about Sylva,” Bokoru emphasized that Sylva had no involvement in the alleged coup plot. He reiterated that Sylva is a committed democrat who has always supported democratic processes.
The statement further criticized the spread of rumors, attributing them to “desperate and narcissistic politicians” who see Sylva as an obstacle to their ambitions. It also highlighted Sylva’s long-standing support for President Tinubu, including his efforts to mobilize the Bayelsa APC structure for Tinubu’s endorsement.
Ongoing Uncertainty
Despite the denials and explanations, the situation remains uncertain. The NDDC spokesperson, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, declined to comment on the interrogation of the commission’s officials. Meanwhile, the fate of Sylva’s brother and driver, who were arrested during the raid, remains unclear.
