Ex-NNPCL boss Kyari denies EFCC arrest rumours
Mele Kyari
Abdullateef Fowewe
Former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, has refuted reports alleging his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Kyari in a response shared on his X (formally) handle, banished the claims as baseless, noting that he is currently enjoying a well-deserved rest following the dissolution of NNPCL’s management and board.
Kyari clarified the report as “clear mischief,” asserting that it was a calculated attempt to misrepresent facts, while reaffirming his dedication to serving both his country and God.
“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. It should be stated that having served the NNPC and the NNPCL for 34 years, and 17 of those in management roles and especially the last 5 years and 9 months, I had little time for leave of even two weeks.
“So, I am thankful for the opportunity to serve under their Excellencies, Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 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, and that 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.
“However, it is important to state that the resort to disinformation does not serve anyone’s purpose, the NNPCL or the country in General, as it has the potential to send the wrong signals to investors and the international community.
“It is in this regard that I urge the media to be circumspect and avoid being stampeded into misleading the public on unverified stories or matters that are subject to further validation by relevant organisations. I sincerely thank my family and friends who have reached out to me or tried to do so, and assure them that I am available to respond to all lawful queries,” Kyari had written.
