Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has refuted widespread reports claiming he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a statement released late Saturday on his X account, Kyari dismissed the reports as “clear mischief” and a “calculated attempt” to discredit him.
He clarified that he is currently taking a “well-deserved rest” following the recent dissolution of the NNPCL board and management, and reiterated his readiness to cooperate with any legitimate inquiry regarding his tenure.
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President Bola Tinubu had removed the chairman, Pius Akinyelure, and the Group CEO, Kyari, in April, subsequently appointing Bashir Ojulari as the new CEO, effective April 2, 2025.
Kyari stated that he had received numerous calls from concerned family and friends due to the online news reports alleging his detention by the EFCC.
He emphasized that he served the NNPCL for 34 years, nearly six of which were as its head, and that his record reflects his commitment to transparency and accountability to both national institutions and his faith.
“I must emphasize that 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… I am happy to account for my stewardship in this world,” he declared.
Kyari urged the media to exercise responsibility and caution, warning that spreading unverified information could harm national interests, particularly in the eyes of the international community.
He thanked his family and friends for their concern and assured them of his willingness to respond to all lawful inquiries.
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