Former NNPCL Boss Mele Kyari Submits to EFCC Probe, Maintains He Has ‘Nothing to Hide

Mele Kolo Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has publicly stated that he has nothing to conceal amid the ongoing investigation launched by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The anti-graft agency is currently probing the financial activities related to refinery repair works conducted during Kyari’s leadership tenure at the state-owned oil firm.

Details of the EFCC Probe

The investigation centers specifically on the funding and execution of repair and rehabilitation projects across Nigeria’s four major refineries. These repair works, initiated under the former administration, have been a subject of intense public scrutiny due to their substantial cost and delayed completion timelines. The EFCC is tasked with scrutinizing the contracts, expenditure, and accountability mechanisms for these critical national projects.

The sequence of events leading to Kyari’s appearance began after the EFCC reportedly declared the former NNPCL boss wanted in connection with the probe. In response, Kyari presented himself to the Commission on Wednesday to address the allegations and cooperate with the investigation.

Kyari’s Public Defense and Commitment to Due Process

Kyari chose to address the public and the media via an official release titled “Hard questions, honest answers.” In the statement, he strongly defended his actions while leading the NNPCL, assuring stakeholders that he operated with integrity and transparency throughout his term.

He maintained a resolute stance, stating that the responsibility for due process now rests squarely with the anti-graft agency.

Kyari concluded his statement with a pointed comment on institutional responsibility: “I have done my part; the EFCC must do theirs. When each of us does our duty – without fear of favor, with honour, respect and commitment – Nigeria moves forward.”

This statement underscores his position: while he has cooperated by presenting himself for questioning, he believes the ongoing scrutiny is a necessary part of the EFCC’s constitutional mandate to fight corruption and ensure accountability in the public sector. The summit brought together top security stakeholders, policymakers, and private guard operators to chart new strategies for tackling insecurity through intelligence sharing and operational synergy.