Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has refuted widespread claims that he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the reports as “clear mischief” and a “calculated attempt” to tarnish his image.
In a statement posted late Saturday on his X handle, Kyari stated that he is currently enjoying a “well-deserved rest” following the recent dissolution of the NNPCL board and management. He reaffirmed his readiness to respond to any lawful inquiry regarding his tenure.
“Over the past few days, and particularly 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 EFCC custody. This is clear mischief and a calculated attempt by the newspaper and its sponsors to achieve a desired outcome,” Kyari wrote.
Kyari, who served the NNPCL for 34 years—nearly six of them as Group CEO—maintained that his record speaks for itself. He emphasized that he served with transparency, integrity, and accountability before both the Nigerian public and God.
“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,” he added.
Calling on the media to act responsibly, Kyari warned that spreading unverified claims could harm national interest and send the wrong message to international stakeholders.
“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 investors and the international community,” he cautioned.
Kyari also expressed gratitude to those who reached out and assured them of his continued availability to respond to all lawful queries.
NEWS REVIEW had earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu, in April, removed both the NNPCL Chairman, Pius Akinyelure, and Group CEO, Mele Kyari. Bashir Ojulari was subsequently appointed as the new Group CEO, effective April 2, 2025.
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, Mele Kyari, has refuted widespread claims that he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the reports as “clear mischief” and a “calculated attempt” to tarnish his image.){kind=link}