Mele Kyari and the NNPC: Current Affairs Unraveled
Disproving EFCC Custody Claims
"Ex-NNPC Boss Mele Kyari Addresses Alleged EFCC Detainment: 'Undeniable Misconduct'"
Dotting down the rumors circling in the digital realm, the former Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has dismissed allegations of him being in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Terming these reports as "mischief" and a "calculated attempt" to ruin his reputation, he affirmed his peaceful retreat after decades of service to the company[1].
A Well-Earned Rest
After an accomplished tenure at the NNPCL, spanning over three decades and nearly six years as the Group CEO, Kyari expressed his contentment in seizing the moment for some well-deserved rest. Faced with false accusations of being held by the EFCC, he has been contacting close friends and family members for solace and support[1].
Stereoscopic Stewardship
A devout Muslim, Kyari approached his leadership role with unwavering transparency, acknowledging that he will one day have to account for his conduct before both the law and his religious faith. Eager to face inquiries regarding his service, he expressed confidence: "I served with the fear of God, knowing that if I do not account before man, I will account before Allah"[1].
Potential Reputational Risks
Issuing a stern warning, Kyari highlighted the potential dangers of spreading unsupported allegations, citing its negative impact on global investors' perceptions of the NNPCL, especially in the current climate where attracting foreign capital is a priority for the nation[1].
The Many Tales of Mele Kyari and the NNPC
Previously, it was reported that Mele Kyari was relieved of his duties by President Bola Tinubu in April, concurrently with the dismissal of the NNPCL Board Chairman, Pius Akinyelure[5]. In the aftermath, Bashir Ojulari took charge as the new Group CEO, effective April 2, 2025[5].
The organization underwent a broad restructuring effort, which included multiple staff departures, the dismissal of high-ranking officials formerly aligned with Kyari, such as Bala Wunti and Ibrahim Onoja, and a significant increase in female representation in leadership roles[5].
Meanwhile, the EFCC has launched an investigation into Kyari regarding suspicions of misappropriating $2.9 billion intended for refinery rehabilitation[5]. Despite the rumors of his detainment, Kyari maintains his eagerness to engage in any law-bound inquiries[1][3].
- Mele Kyari, formerly of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), dismissed claims of being in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) custody, referring to the allegations as "mischief" and a "calculated attempt" to tarnish his reputation.
- Despite the EFCC's investigation into suspicions of misappropriating $2.9 billion for refinery rehabilitation, Mele Kyari, the former Group CEO of NNPCL, expressed his eagerness to participate in any law-bound inquiry.
- In the realm of Nigerian politics and general news, the potential consequences of spreading unsupported allegations were addressed by Mele Kyari, who warned of the negative impact such actions could have on global investors' perceptions of the NNPCL.
- Amidst the restructuring of the NNPCL under the new Group CEO, Bashir Ojulari, a significant increase in female representation in leadership roles was noted, as well as multiple staff departures and the dismissal of high-ranking officials, including Bala Wunti and Ibrahim Onoja, who were previously aligned with Mele Kyari.
