Senator Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West has revealed why he withdrew from a Senate panel investigating former Petroleum Minister Timipre Sylva, who was also his predecessor as Governor of Bayelsa State.
Dickson said he recused himself upon learning that the Senate Committee on Local Content was holding a hearing focused solely on allegations that Sylva diverted $14.8 million. He objected to what he called a “selective inquiry,” insisting that if there is to be an investigation, it should cover the entire management of the funds, not just a single transaction.
He added that since the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has already conducted investigations on the matter, the Senate committee’s probe was unnecessary and too narrowly focused.
Dickson further pointed out their political differences, emphasising that he refuses to participate in attacks against opponents. He stated that despite their opposing political views since 2011, he does not engage in politics aimed at bringing others down. Instead, he prefers to compete fairly during elections and leave political rivalries at the polls.
He expressed a long-standing policy of supporting federal-level officials regardless of partisan divides, advising that if one cannot assist others, they should at least avoid causing harm.
Dickson said, “I am in politics to serve God and humanity — to build, develop, and defend, not to destroy.” He noted that while others may try to undermine him, he has remained resilient with faith.
On November 10, the EFCC declared Timipre Sylva wanted over allegations of conspiracy and dishonest conversion involving $14.8 million belonging to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). The EFCC urged the public to assist in locating Sylva.
In response, Sylva’s media aide, Julius Bokoru, dismissed the EFCC’s announcement as a politically motivated attack designed to damage Sylva’s reputation. He described the allegations as a strategic shift from political conspiracy claims to financial accusations, calling for an explanation of this sudden change.
Additionally, the Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide expressed concerns over the EFCC’s decision to declare Sylva wanted.
