Alleged Coup Financiers: Timipre Sylva Accused of Bankrolling N835m Plot to Overthrow Tinubu

Security agencies investigating the alleged coup plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu have identified two persons accused of funnelling N835 million through two private companies to bankroll the conspiracy. Former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva allegedly contributed N785 million via Purple Waves Limited, an Abuja construction firm whose secretary has been arrested. Sylva, a former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, remains at large and has denied involvement.

The second alleged sponsor, Moses Zakwa, is accused of contributing N50 million through Clay Ring Services Limited, a Lagos-based firm where he is a director. The Defence Headquarters announced last month that investigations had been completed and forwarded to “appropriate superior authority.” Forty suspects are detained, including senior military officers, a police officer, and civilians. The alleged plotters planned to assassinate top government officials, including President Tinubu, VP Shettima, and Senate President Akpabio.

Key Points:

The N835 million funding exposes the scale of alleged conspiracy against the government.
Sylva’s alleged role as principal financier implicates a former governor and minister.
Security agencies intensify dragnet, while Sylva remains at large.
This signals the seriousness of the plot, involving military officers and civilians.
The timing, with investigations completed, moves toward prosecution.

Ex-Gov Timipre Sylva accused of funding N785m of N835m coup plot to overthrow Tinubu, as 40 suspects including military officers remain detained.

Sources: Premium Times, Defence Headquarters