Ex-NNPCL Boss Mele Kyari Speaks After EFCC Interrogation

Former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has broken his silence following questioning by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure.

Kyari arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday, where he was grilled over claims of conspiracy, abuse of office, and money laundering.

Speaking briefly to reporters after the session, Kyari said:

“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.”

The interrogation is tied to an ongoing EFCC probe into Kyari’s financial dealings. In August, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, ordered a temporary freeze of four Jaiz Bank accounts allegedly linked to him. The anti-graft agency had requested a 60-day freeze, but the court granted 30 days, with an option for renewal.

The order followed a petition submitted in April by a civil society group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, accusing Kyari of conspiracy, abuse of office, and money laundering.

Kyari, who oversaw the transformation of the state-owned oil firm from NNPC to NNPCL, has refrained from commenting in detail on the allegations. He insists the EFCC should be allowed to carry out its investigation.

The EFCC has not confirmed whether charges will follow, though sources say the probe remains active and the interim freeze could be extended if needed. The matter is set to return to court on September 23 for a progress update.

Kyari was appointed GMD of the then-NNPC in 2019 and later retained as head of NNPCL after its commercialisation. He left office in July 2025.