Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), asserts that he served with integrity and accountability. Following a significant overhaul at the oil company, various reports have emerged regarding his tenure as GCEO. A report claimed that N80 billion was discovered in the account of a former refinery Managing Director who worked under Kyari. His successor, Bayo Ojulari, initiated a major restructuring, resulting in the departure of several individuals who served under Kyari’s leadership. Allegations of corruption during his tenure have also surfaced.
However, in response to a report claiming he was in custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Kyari stated that he had received numerous calls from concerned individuals over the false narrative. “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 EFCC.”
Kyari described the claims as “clear mischief and a calculated attempt by the newspaper and its sponsors to achieve a desired outcome, known only to them.” He added, “At present, I am taking a well-deserved rest after the dissolution of the management and board of the NNPCL, of which I was the Group Chief Executive.”
Kyari reflected on his 34-year career at NNPC and NNPCL, including 17 years in management roles, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve under two administrations. “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 surely account before Allah. I am better off accounting to the institutions of man. Therefore, having served in public capacity, I am willing and happy to account for my stewardship in this world.”
Kyari also cautioned that spreading unverified information about his tenure could harm Nigeria’s reputation and deter investors. “It is in this regard that I urge the media to be circumspect and avoid being stampeded into misleading the public with unverified stories or matters that require further validation by relevant authorities.”
He concluded by thanking his family and friends for their support and assuring them that he is available to respond to all lawful queries. “I sincerely thank my family and friends who have reached out to me or tried to and assure them that I am available to respond to all lawful queries.”
