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Mele Kyari Denies EFCC Arrest, Says He’s On Vacation

Mele Kyari Denies EFCC Arrest, Says He’s On Vacation
  • PublishedMay 4, 2025

Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has denied reports claiming he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Kyari, in a statement shared on his official X handle, described the rumour as “clear mischief” and a deliberate attempt to distort facts.

He said he is currently enjoying a well-deserved rest following the recent dissolution of the NNPCL management and board.

“At present, I am taking a well-deserved rest after the dissolution of the management and board of the NNPCL, of which I was the Group Chief Executive,” Kyari said.

“Having served the NNPC and NNPCL for 34 years, including 17 years in management roles and the last five years and nine months as CEO, I had little time for leave of even two weeks,” he added.

Kyari expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve under Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Tinubu, saying he served with the fear of God and is ready to account for his stewardship.

He warned that spreading falsehood could damage investor confidence and mislead the public.

“It is important to state that 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 investors and the international community,” he said.

Kyari urged the media to avoid rushing to publish unverified claims and assured the public that he remains available to respond to any lawful inquiries.