Former NNPCL boss Mele Kyari denies EFCC arrest rumors

Former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has firmly debunked rumors alleging he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the reports as a “calculated attempt” to malign his reputation.

In a late-night statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday, Kyari labeled the viral claims as “clear mischief” and “deliberate disinformation”, insisting that he is currently on a well-deserved rest following his exit from the NNPCL.

“Over the past few days, and particularly in the past two hours, I have been inundated with calls from concerned family and friends over claims by an online newspaper that I was in the custody of the EFCC,” Kyari wrote.

President Bola Tinubu had relieved Kyari of his position in April 2025, along with the NNPCL board chairman Pius Akinyelure.

In their place, the president appointed Bashir Ojulari as the new NNPCL CEO, with the appointment taking effect from April 2.

Kyari, who spent 34 years with the state-run oil corporation, including nearly six years as its GCEO, emphasized his readiness to cooperate with lawful investigations should any arise, but cautioned the media against propagating unfounded narratives.

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“I served with the fear of God, knowing full well as a Muslim that if I do not account before man, I will account before Allah,” he stated. “My record reflects a life of service guided by integrity, transparency, and accountability.”

He expressed appreciation to well-wishers and supporters for their concern amid the rumors and called for journalistic responsibility in matters of public interest. Kyari also warned that such falsehoods can have damaging consequences beyond personal reputations.

“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 the international community,” he said.

The former oil chief reiterated that he is not under investigation or detention and remains committed to addressing any legitimate inquiries regarding his stewardship of the national oil company.

His rebuttal comes amid a climate of heightened public scrutiny of former government officials, especially those who held strategic economic roles.

While no official statement has been issued by the EFCC regarding the rumor, Kyari’s public denial aims to quell growing speculation and restore clarity.