DSS Arraigns Five for Concealing Timipre Sylva's Whereabouts

On October 25, 2023, five individuals were arraigned by the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Federal High Court in Abuja for allegedly concealing the whereabouts of Timipre Sylva, the former Governor of Bayelsa State, in connection with an alleged coup plot against President Bola Tinubu. The defendants, identified as Reuben Ayuba, Musa Moham, Fridai Paul, Paganengigha Anagaha, and Ayebaifi Suobit, faced two counts of charges related to allegedly concealing a fugitive and failing to disclose information to authorities.

They pleaded not guilty to the charges. The prosecution accused the defendants of being accessories to the alleged crime, which prompted an investigation by security agencies.

The court, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, granted bail to the defendants in the sum of N5 million each, with strict conditions including the submission of affidavits and proof of legitimate livelihood. The case was adjourned until July 22, 2026, for trial.