Local Content Probe Deepens Over $14.8m Investigation
By Naija Enquirer Staff
Former Bayelsa State governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Henry Seriake Dickson, has recused himself from an investigative hearing probing the alleged diversion of $14.8 million linked to former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva.
The hearing, convened by the Senate Committee on Local Content, is examining the financial management of a key oil and gas fund. However, Dickson said the inquiry appeared “selective” and could undermine broader governance reforms in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
Speaking after withdrawing from the session, he stated that he chose to step aside once he realised the sitting was specifically aimed at investigating the Sylva transaction.
“I attended believing it was an interactive forum with the Executive Secretary and his team,” Dickson explained. “When I discovered that the hearing was specifically summoned for that purpose, I raised objections on the ground that there should be no selective inquiry.”
He argued that if any investigation was to be carried out, it should span the entire management history of the fund, not just one transaction.
Dickson also noted that the involvement of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) already signalled significant progress on the case. “It is public knowledge that the EFCC has already taken steps, meaning they have investigated and reached a certain level,” he said.
He stressed that although the committee has the constitutional authority to probe the matter, he would not participate in a process that could be interpreted as politically targeted against a fellow Bayelsan.
“I recused myself because the person affected is a former governor of my state, my predecessor, and I have a policy of not joining to fight or pull down anyone,” he declared. “I am not like typical politicians who celebrate the downfall of their opponents.”
Dickson said his political philosophy is rooted in “service to God and man,” adding that disagreements in politics should not translate to destroying individuals after elections.
“I build, I raise, I develop, I defend; I don’t destroy or pull down,” he stated, insisting that the small political ecosystem of Bayelsa requires respect for all sides.
He described the atmosphere during the hearing as respectful and cooperative, noting that his colleagues understood and accepted his decision. “They saw reason with me, and I left,” he said.
The senator reiterated that his recusal does not affect the committee’s work, as the panel retains full authority to continue the investigation. He clarified that he made his position public to avoid misconceptions as the probe continues.
The Senate investigation proceeds amid heightened public scrutiny of transparency in oil and gas funds and the political sensitivities surrounding prominent figures in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
