Sylva's aide questions media reports linking former minister to alleged coup plot
Chief Julius Bokoru, Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, has raised concerns regarding media reports connecting his principal to an alleged coup plot. Bokoru stated that some reports appear to be reinforcing a specific narrative against Sylva, going beyond ordinary investigative reporting. While not attacking investigative journalism, Bokoru appealed to journalists to scrutinize sources and methods behind information before publication, noting that the allegations have been repeatedly repackaged, suggesting a deliberate campaign. He questioned the origin and timing of materials forming the basis of these reports, asking why sensitive investigative documents are appearing in sequenced installments and why new reports reinforce the same conclusion about Sylva before allegations are established in court. Bokoru clarified he is not accusing media organizations of being sponsored but noted the pattern of coverage raises questions about whether some organizations are pursuing their own stories or acting from someone else's script. He emphasized that allegations are not evidence and should not be presented as established facts, urging that any evidence against Sylva be properly tested through legal processes. Bokoru expressed concern that repeated publication of allegations could amount to prosecuting the matter in the court of public opinion, where evidence is not formally tested. He suggested that
