Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has firmly dismissed the rumours suggesting that he is currently in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In a statement released late on Saturday, Kyari labelled the reports as “clear mischief” and described them as a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation.
The former NNPCL boss explained that he is presently taking a “well-deserved rest” following the recent dissolution of both the NNPCL board and its management, which took place after his removal by President Bola Tinubu in April. Kyari emphasized that he was fully prepared to respond to any lawful inquiries regarding his tenure as the head of the corporation.
Earlier reports had indicated that President Tinubu, in a restructuring move, had removed Mele Kyari and Pius Akinyelure, the then-chairman of NNPCL, in April 2025. Bashir Ojulari was subsequently appointed as the new CEO, effective from April 2, 2025.
Kyari, who served NNPCL for over three decades—including nearly six years at the helm—made it clear that his professional record speaks for itself. He expressed pride in his tenure, asserting that he had always carried out his duties with utmost transparency and a deep sense of accountability. He further stated that, as a devout Muslim, he took his responsibility seriously, knowing that he would one day answer before both man and Allah.
“I have always served with the fear of God. I fully understand that if I do not account before man, I will account before Allah. I am at peace with my actions, and I am happy to account for my stewardship in this world,” Kyari declared in the statement.
In his message, Kyari also addressed the media, urging journalists and news outlets to exercise caution and responsibility when reporting on sensitive matters. He cautioned that the dissemination of unverified claims could have far-reaching negative consequences for Nigeria, particularly in the eyes of the international community and potential investors. Kyari emphasized that disinformation does not benefit the nation or its institutions and could undermine the credibility of both the NNPCL and the country as a whole.
The former NNPCL boss thanked his family and friends for their concern and reassured them that he remains available to respond to any official inquiries or lawful investigations regarding his actions during his leadership of the corporation.
This development comes at a time when the NNPCL is undergoing significant leadership changes, and with the rumors surrounding Kyari’s alleged arrest, the situation remains a topic of public interest and scrutiny.