A former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari, has dismissed widespread rumours claiming that he is being held by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
He described the claims as “clear mischief” and a “calculated attempt” to discredit him.
In a statement posted late Saturday on his X handle, Kyari said he is currently enjoying a “well-deserved rest” following the recent dissolution of the NNPCL board and management. He reiterated his readiness to respond to any lawful inquiry regarding his tenure.
Verily News earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu had in April removed the chairman, Pius Akinyelure, and the Group CEO, Kyari.
As a result, the President appointed Bashir Ojulari as the new CEO, with the appointment taking effect from April 2, 2025.
“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 Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
“This is clear mischief and a calculated attempt by the newspaper and its sponsors to achieve a desired outcome, which only them know,” Kyari wrote on Saturday.
Kyari, who pointed out that he served the NNPCL for 34 years—almost six of which were as head of the organisation—stated that his track record is evident, noting that he carried out his responsibilities with transparency and respect for national institutions and divine accountability.
“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.
Urging the media to act with responsibility and caution, Kyari warned that circulating unverified stories could negatively impact national interest, particularly in how the country is perceived by the international community.
“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 expressed gratitude to friends and family who reached out and gave them reassurance of his availability to respond to “all lawful queries.”
What you should know
Mele Kyari has strongly denied claims of being detained by the EFCC, describing such reports as misleading and intentionally damaging.
His reaction follows President Tinubu’s recent decision to dissolve the NNPCL board and appoint Bashir Ojulari as the new CEO.
Kyari emphasized his clean record during his 34-year service at NNPCL and warned that spreading false reports could harm Nigeria’s global reputation and investor confidence.
He reaffirmed his commitment to accountability and assured the public of his willingness to respond to any legitimate investigation.
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