Former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has addressed recent rumors regarding his alleged detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The former NNPCL boss was quick to deny the claims, noting that the reports were baseless and part of an effort to mislead the public.
Kyari noted that he had been overwhelmed with calls from friends and family concerned about reports circulating on social media and certain online platforms suggesting he was in EFCC custody. He described the narrative as “clear mischief and a calculated attempt” to damage his reputation.
He explained that following the dissolution of the NNPCL board and management, he is currently on a much-needed break, having worked without pause for over three decades. “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,” he said.
Kyari also reflected on his time in public service, stating he served Nigeria with a deep sense of responsibility and moral duty. “I must emphasize that I served with the fear of God, knowing fully well, as a Muslim, that if I do not account before man, I will surely account before Allah,” he said.
During his career, Kyari served the petroleum sector for 34 years, with 17 of those spent in leadership positions. He also expressed gratitude to former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve under their administrations.
Kyari warned that unverified reports and misleading claims about his time in office could create confusion among investors and damage Nigeria’s image internationally. He urged journalists and media houses to ensure accuracy in their reporting.
“It is in this regard that I urge the media to be circumspect and avoid being stampeded into misleading the public with unverified stories or matters that require further validation by relevant authorities.”
In conclusion, Kyari assured the public and those concerned about the false reports that he is available and willing to respond to any legal or formal inquiries regarding his stewardship. “I sincerely thank my family and friends who have reached out to me or tried to and assure them that I am available to respond to all lawful queries,” he said.
