Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has firmly denied reports claiming he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with an ongoing probe into the alleged misappropriation of $2.9 billion earmarked for refinery rehabilitation.
Describing the rumors as a deliberate smear campaign, Kyari labeled the reports as “clear mischief” orchestrated by unnamed individuals aiming to damage his reputation.
“Over the past few days, and especially in the last few hours, I’ve received numerous calls from concerned family and friends over claims by an online publication that I was arrested by the EFCC. This is entirely false and a calculated attempt to achieve a hidden agenda,” he stated.
Kyari, who was recently relieved of his duties following President Bola Tinubu’s decision to dissolve the NNPCL board and management on April 2, said he is currently on a well-earned break after nearly 35 years of service in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
“I served NNPC and NNPCL for 34 years, 17 of those in management, and especially the past five years and nine months as CEO. I had barely taken two weeks off during that time,” he added.
Addressing the investigation, Kyari distanced himself from any wrongdoing and expressed confidence in facing any legitimate inquiry regarding his stewardship.
“I served with the fear of God and am prepared to account for my time in office—before man and before Allah,” he affirmed.
The EFCC is currently probing the alleged misuse of funds intended for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s three major refineries—Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Warri—totaling over $2.9 billion. A leaked EFCC letter dated April 28, 2025, reportedly demanded financial records and certified salary documents for several high-ranking current and former officials, including Kyari and his predecessor, Abubakar Yar’Adua.
Sources say over ₦80 billion was discovered in personal accounts linked to a former refinery director, triggering further arrests and in-depth forensic audits. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
In response to the circulating false reports, Kyari urged the media to uphold journalistic integrity and avoid spreading unverified information, warning that such misinformation could further erode investor confidence and damage Nigeria’s global image.
Despite the controversy, Kyari expressed gratitude to those who have reached out in support and reiterated his willingness to cooperate fully with lawful authorities.
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