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A fresh legal battle may be looming for former Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva, as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) weighs the option of arraigning him in absentia over alleged fraud and criminal conspiracy.
The anti-graft agency is prosecuting Sylva in connection with the alleged diversion of about $14.8 million, funds reportedly linked to a refinery project under the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board.
Prosecutors insist that repeated efforts to secure his physical presence in court have so far failed.
According to court filings, the EFCC obtained an arrest warrant after the former governor failed to honour invitations and court processes.
Moreover, investigators believe Sylva has remained outside the country for several months, a development that has stalled the commencement of full trial proceedings.
Legal sources familiar with the matter disclosed that the prosecution is considering arraignment in absentia if the defendant continues to stay away from the jurisdiction of the court.
Under Nigerian law, such a step may be taken when a defendant deliberately evades trial despite being aware of the charges.
Meanwhile, Sylva’s camp has rejected the allegations, describing the case as politically motivated.
His aides have maintained that the former governor is willing to engage with authorities and clear his name at the appropriate time.
However, the EFCC has countered this position, arguing that criminal proceedings cannot be placed on indefinite hold.
Consequently, the agency is reportedly exploring all lawful options to ensure the case proceeds.
As the situation unfolds, the court is expected to determine whether conditions have been met to allow the trial to begin without the defendant’s physical presence.
The decision, hence, could set a notable precedent in high-profile corruption cases involving politically exposed persons.