Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has refuted circulating rumors claiming he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In a late-night statement posted on his X handle on Saturday, Kyari labeled the reports as “clear mischief” and a “calculated attempt” to tarnish his reputation.
Kyari, who was removed from his post by President Bola Tinubu in April alongside board chairman Pius Akinyelure, said he is currently on a “well-deserved rest” following the dissolution of the NNPCL board and management. Tinubu appointed Bashir Ojulari as the new CEO, effective April 2, 2025. Kyari, who served the NNPCL for 34 years, including nearly six as its head, expressed his readiness to address any lawful inquiries about his tenure.
“Over the past few days and in particular in the past two hours, I have been inundated with calls from concerned family and friends over claims by an online newspaper that I was in the custody of the EFCC,” Kyari wrote. He emphasized that his record reflects transparency and accountability, stating, “I served with the fear of God knowing fully well as a Muslim that if I do not account before man, I will account before Allah.”
The former CEO urged the media to exercise responsibility and restraint, warning that unverified claims could harm national interests and deter investors. “The resort to disinformation does not serve anyone’s purpose, the NNPCL or the country in general, as it has the potential to send the wrong signals to the international community,” he cautioned.
Kyari thanked supporters for their concern and reaffirmed his willingness to respond to legitimate queries, dismissing the rumors as baseless.
