The probe involves 14 senior NNPCL officials, including Kyari and former CEO Abubakar Yar’Adua. Over ₦80 billion was reportedly found in one former refinery managing director’s accounts
Mele Kyari Refutes EFCC Custody Claims Amid $2.9bn Refinery Probe
Mele Kyari, former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has debunked reports alleging his detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over a $2.9 billion refinery rehabilitation probe.
In a Saturday statement on his X account, the 60-year-old dismissed the claims as “clear mischief” aimed at damaging his reputation.
Kyari, recently ousted following a presidential directive dissolving the NNPCL board, said he is enjoying a “well-deserved rest” after 34 years of service, including 17 in management roles.
He emphasized his readiness to account for his tenure, stating, “As a Muslim, I know I will account before Allah if not man,” and expressed willingness to address lawful queries.
The EFCC is investigating alleged misappropriation of funds for rehabilitating Nigeria’s Port Harcourt ($1.56 billion), Kaduna ($740.6 million), and Warri ($656.9 million) refineries.
The probe involves 14 senior NNPCL officials, including Kyari and former CEO Abubakar Yar’Adua. Over ₦80 billion was reportedly found in one former refinery managing director’s accounts, triggering further arrests.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the ongoing investigation to Channels TV. On April 2, President Bola Tinubu replaced Kyari with Bashir Ojulari as Group CEO and appointed Ahmadu Kida as Non-Executive Chairman to boost efficiency and investor confidence.
Kyari urged the media to verify claims to avoid harming Nigeria’s reputation and thanked supporters for their concern during the controversy. Read More
