Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has denied reports claiming he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), calling the allegations false and misleading.
In a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Kyari described the news published by an online platform as “mischief” and a calculated move by unknown sponsors to damage his reputation. He clarified that he is currently enjoying a well-deserved rest following the recent dissolution of the NNPCL board and management by President Bola Tinubu.
“I served not only my country but also God,” Kyari wrote. “At present, I am taking a well-deserved rest after the dissolution of the NNPCL board, of which I was the Group Chief Executive. There is no truth to the claim that I am in EFCC custody.”
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Kyari emphasized his readiness to account for his time in public office, adding that he always served with the fear of God and a strong sense of responsibility. He stated that during his 34 years of service—17 of which were in management and nearly six as GCEO—he barely had time off, highlighting the intensity and commitment of his tenure.
Kyari noted that spreading false information about former public officials could harm the country’s reputation and deter potential investors.
“This kind of disinformation doesn’t help the NNPCL or Nigeria. It sends the wrong message to both investors and the global community,” he warned.
Kyari urged the media to verify reports before publication, especially in sensitive cases such as allegations of corruption, and to avoid being used to mislead the public. He concluded by reassuring friends and family who have reached out to him that he is safe, available, and willing to answer any lawful inquiries.
The statement comes amid rising public interest in the NNPCL leadership transition and EFCC probe, especially regarding transparency and accountability, which many stakeholders see as critical to rebuilding trust in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Kyari’s remarks also highlight ongoing concerns about the role of media in reporting on national figures and the impact of NNPCL leadership transition and EFCC probe on the country’s international image.
