ABUJA—Former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has broken his silence following his interrogation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure.
Kyari appeared at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday, where he was questioned over issues relating to conspiracy, abuse of office, and money laundering. Speaking briefly to journalists after the session, he remarked: “I have done my part; the EFCC must do theirs. When each of us does our duty, without fear or favour, with honour, respect, and commitment, Nigeria moves forward.”
His questioning is part of a broader investigation into financial dealings allegedly linked to him. Earlier, the EFCC approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking to freeze certain accounts believed to be connected to the former oil boss. Justice Emeka Nwite, in a ruling delivered in August, ordered a temporary 30-day freeze on four Jaiz Bank accounts, with an option of renewal, after considering evidence presented by the anti-graft agency.
According to an affidavit filed by EFCC investigator Amin Abdullahi, the probe stemmed from a petition submitted on April 24 by the civil society group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law. The petition accused Kyari of conspiracy, abuse of office, and money laundering. While the EFCC had initially sought a 60-day freeze order, the court granted 30 days pending further progress reports, with the next hearing scheduled for September 23.
Kyari, who oversaw NNPC’s historic transition into a commercial entity—NNPCL—between 2019 and 2025, has so far refrained from making detailed statements on the allegations. He has maintained that the EFCC should be allowed to carry out its mandate without interference. The anti-graft agency has not confirmed whether formal charges will follow, but sources suggest the investigation remains active and the interim freeze could be extended if deemed necessary.
