Former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, spoke to the press on Wednesday after facing questioning by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Investigators interrogated him about alleged financial improprieties during his time in office.
Kyari arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, around 2:15 p.m., where investigators questioned him about allegations of conspiracy, abuse of office, and money laundering. As he left the premises, the former NNPCL boss made a brief statement to journalists, saying, “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 comes amid an ongoing investigation into his financial dealings. The EFCC had previously requested that the Federal High Court in Abuja freeze some accounts linked to Kyari to allow them to complete their probe. In August, Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided over the case, ordered a temporary freeze on four Jaiz Bank accounts allegedly connected to Kyari. While the EFCC asked for a 60-day freeze, the court granted a 30-day order with the option to renew it if necessary.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
In his ruling, Justice Nwite stated: “I have listened to the counsel for the applicant and examined the affidavit evidence with the exhibits attached. I find this application meritorious and hereby grant it as prayed.” The court adjourned the matter to September 23 for a progress report on the investigation.
According to an affidavit filed by EFCC investigator Amin Abdullahi, the probe began after a civil society group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, submitted a petition on April 24. The petition accused Kyari of conspiracy, abuse of office, and money laundering.
Kyari, who led the state-owned oil company through a major transition from NNPC to NNPCL, has not yet provided detailed comments on the allegations. He continues to maintain that the anti-graft agency should be allowed to carry out its work. The EFCC has not disclosed whether charges will follow the questioning, but sources say the investigation is ongoing. The court’s interim freeze order could be extended if investigators need more time. Kyari, appointed as NNPC GMD in 2019 and later retained as the head of NNPCL after its commercialization, left office in July 2025.
See Also: Court Freezes Mele Kyari’s Bank Accounts Amid Probe
