Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Mele Kyari, has debunked viral reports alleging that he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), insisting he is simply taking a well-deserved rest following his recent exit from the company.
In a statement released on Saturday, Kyari described the claims by an online newspaper as “mischievous” and “calculated disinformation,” stating that such reports were aimed at achieving an undisclosed agenda.
“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.
Kyari, who served the national oil company for 34 years — including 17 years in management and almost six years as its top executive — said he barely had time off during his tenure and is now using the opportunity to recuperate.
“Having served the NNPC and the NNPCL for 34 years, and 17 of those in management roles and especially the last 5 years and 9 months, I had little time for leave of even two weeks,” he noted.
Addressing the allegations of being held by the EFCC, Kyari stated that he is not under investigation or in custody, adding that he is available and willing to respond to any lawful enquiries.
He stressed the importance of accountability in public service, noting that as a Muslim, he believes he will ultimately account for his actions before God.
“I served with the fear of God, knowing fully well that if I do not account before man, I will account before Allah,” he said.
Kyari also warned that the spread of unverified and misleading reports could harm investor confidence and Nigeria’s international reputation.
“The resort to disinformation does not serve anyone’s purpose—not the NNPCL, nor the country at large—as it has the potential to send the wrong signals to investors and the international community,” he cautioned.
He urged media organisations to exercise caution and professionalism, refraining from publishing unverified stories that could cause public confusion.
“I urge the media to be circumspect and avoid being stampeded into misleading the public on unverified stories or matters that are subject to further validation by relevant organisations,” he said.
Kyari expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and associates who reached out amid the rumours, assuring them that he remains available and in good health.
