DSS Arraigns Five Over Alleged Concealment of Ex-Gov. Timipre Sylva, Fugitive in Coup Plot Case

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned five Nigerians before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations that they conspired to conceal the whereabouts of former Bayelsa State Governor and former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, who is wanted in connection with an alleged plot to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The defendants, identified as Reuben Ayuba, Musa Mohammed, Friday Paul, Paganengigha Anagaha and Ayebaifife Suobite, were brought before the court on charges bordering on criminal conspiracy and allegedly concealing the whereabouts of a fugitive. Prosecutors contend that the accused knowingly withheld information that could have aided security agencies in locating and apprehending Sylva.

According to the DSS, the charges stem from an ongoing investigation into an alleged coup conspiracy said to have targeted the government of President Bola Tinubu. Security agencies allege that Sylva, who has not yet been apprehended, played a key role in the purported plot and has remained out of reach despite efforts to locate him.

The latest arraignment comes months after the Federal Government filed treason and terrorism-related charges against six other suspects accused of participating in the alleged coup scheme. Those defendants pleaded not guilty when they were first arraigned, while Sylva was listed among suspects yet to be arrested.

Court proceedings in the fresh case are expected to continue as prosecutors present evidence to support the allegations against the five defendants. The accused are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by the court.