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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari is allegedly in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as the agency commences a probe into the affairs of the national oil company.
Sources revealed that Mr. Kyari was taken into custody on Friday 2nd May 2025 and is expected to remain with the EFCC throughout the weekend.
This development follows the recent removal of Mr. Kyari and several other top officials from their positions at the corporation.
The investigation reportedly centres on allegations of mismanagement of funds and abuse of office during their tenure. While EFCC officials have declined to issue any official statement regarding the arrest, a leaked letter addressed to the newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Bayo Ojulari, has been circulating on social media.
In the said letter, the EFCC formally requested certified true copies of the allowances and emoluments of 14 current and former officials of the NNPCL.
The list includes prominent names such as Abubakar Lawal Yar’ Adua, Mustapha Magaji Sugungun, Kayode Olusegun Adetokunbo, and Umar Ajiya, among others who have either retired or no longer serve with the organization.
This move by the EFCC signals a significant step in scrutinizing the operations and financial dealings of the NNPC under its previous leadership. The investigation is expected to shed light on the alleged irregularities and could potentially lead to further legal action depending on the findings.
The development has already begun to generate reactions across the country, with many Nigerians calling for a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure accountability in the management of the nation’s key oil resources. The outcome of this probe is keenly awaited as it could have far-reaching implications for the future governance and operations of the NNPC.
Kyari was removed from his position as NNPC Boss on April 2, 2025.
While the official statement cited the need for enhanced operational efficiency, restored investor confidence, and a more commercially viable NNPC as the reasons for the reconstitution of the board and the appointment of a new GCEO, reports suggest that mounting concern over performance and a failure to meet key production targets were contributing factors.