SSS Arraigns Five For Allegedly Hiding Timipre Sylva’s Whereabouts

The State Security Service has arraigned five associates of former Bayelsa State governor Timipre Sylva before the Federal High Court in Abuja for allegedly concealing his whereabouts after he was declared wanted over an alleged coup plot.

The defendants — Reuben Ayuba, Musa Mohammed, Friday Paul, Paganengigha Anagaha and Ayebaifie Suobite — pleaded not guilty before Justice Peter Lifu to counts linked to concealing the whereabouts of a fugitive and conspiracy.

Premium Times reported that the prosecution asked the court to fix a date for witnesses, while lawyers for the defendants applied for bail. Vanguard reported that the defendants had been in security custody since October 25, 2025.

Justice Lifu granted each defendant bail in the sum of N5 million with two sureties. The court ordered that the sureties provide tax evidence, affidavits of means and proof of legitimate livelihood, with verification by the court registrar.

The defendants are to remain at Kuje Correctional Centre until the bail conditions are met. The case was adjourned until July 22 for the commencement of trial.

Sources: Premium Times, Vanguard