Senator Dickson Recuses Himself from $14.8 Sylva Probe, Says Investigation “Too Selective”
Abuja, Nigeria – Former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Henry Seriake Dickson, has stirred controversy after announcing his decision to recuse himself from a Senate Committee on Local Content investigative hearing probing the alleged diversion of $14.8 million linked to former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva.
Dickson explained that he attended the session believing it was a routine interactive meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and his team. According to him, he was surprised to discover that the session was specifically convened to probe allegations against Sylva, prompting his immediate objection.
The senator argued that the investigation appeared selective, insisting that if any probe must occur, it should cover the entire management of the fund from inception, not a single transaction. He also noted that the EFCC had already taken steps on the matter, making the Senate’s renewed investigation unnecessary — even though the committee had the constitutional power to proceed.
Dickson said he voluntarily stepped aside because the accused, Timipre Sylva, is a former governor of Bayelsa and his predecessor in office. He emphasised that his political philosophy forbids “pulling people down,” even opponents he has long been at odds with.
“I have a policy of not joining to fight or destroy anyone,” he stated. “Even though we have disagreed politically since 2011 and belong to different parties, I will not add to anyone’s problems.”
He stressed that his politics centres on service and fairness, not vendettas, noting that despite what he described as repeated attempts by rivals to “pull him down,” he continues to survive political battles “by God’s grace” and the support of Bayelsans.
Dickson said he explained his stance to fellow committee members, who agreed with his decision to step aside while the committee continues its work.
Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Bayelsa and the Niger Delta, he said he has always supported citizens across party lines and will continue to prioritise unity and fairness as the investigation proceeds.
The Senate Committee on Local Content is expected to continue the hearing in the coming days, with Dickson urging the public to understand his position and respect the integrity of the process.
