Former NNPCL Boss, Mele Kyari Dismisses EFCC Arrest Over Alleged Misappropriation Of $2.9 billion

The embattled Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has dismissed reports claiming he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), following an ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of $2.9 billion allocated for refinery rehabilitation.

It will be recalled that Kyari was removed from his position following a presidential directive dissolving the NNPCL board and management

Kyari who dismissed the reports in  a statement posted on Saturday via his X account (formerly Twitter) described it

as “clear mischief” and a calculated attempt by unnamed individuals to tarnish his reputation.

“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 the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

“This is clear mischief and a calculated attempt by the newspaper and its sponsors to achieve a desired outcome, which only they know,” the 60-year-old wrote.

The erswhile NNPCL boss says he is currently taking a “well-deserved rest” after years of demanding public service

While maintaining his innocence, Kyari expressed his readiness to account for his time in office, both before the Nigerian authorities and ultimately before God.

“I must emphasise 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.

“Having served in public capacity, I am willing and happy to account for my stewardship in this world,” he stated.

Kyari also urged the media to exercise restraint and avoid spreading unverified claims, warning that disinformation could harm investor confidence and the country’s international reputation.

His statement comes amid a growing corruption probe by the EFCC involving at least 14 senior officials of NNPCL, including two former CEOs—Kyari and Abubakar Yar’Adua.

Refineries Funds Investigation

A letter dated 28 April 2025 revealed that the EFCC is investigating a case of abuse of office and misappropriation of funds connected to the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s three major refineries: Port Harcourt ($1.56 billion), Kaduna ($740.6 million), and Warri ($656.9 million).

As part of the investigation, the Commission has requested certified true copies of emoluments and allowances of the listed officials, both serving and retired.

Those under scrutiny include Ibrahim Onoja, Mustapha Magaji Sugungun, Abubakar Lawal Yar’Adua, Isiaka Abdulrazak, Umar Ajiya, Dikko Ahmed, Ademoye Adeniyi Jelili, Kayode Olusegun Adetokunbo, Efiok Michael Akpan, Jimoh Olasunkanmi, Bello Kankaya, and Desmond Inyama.