“I Served with Fear of God” – Mele Kyari Responds to EFCC Arrest Rumors

Former Group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mele Kyari, has denied reports that he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In a statement on his X handle, Kyari described the online news reports as “clear mischief” and a “calculated attempt” to mislead the public.

Kyari, who was recently relieved of his position as the Group Managing Director of the NNPC, stated that he is taking a well-deserved rest after serving the organization for 34 years. He expressed his willingness to account for his stewardship during his tenure, citing his fear of God and accountability before Allah.

Kyari framed his nearly six years at NNPC’s helm as a period of tireless service, noting he had “little time for leave of even two weeks.” He invoked his Muslim faith as proof of his integrity, stating: “I served with the fear of God knowing fully well as a Muslim that if I do not account before man, I will account before Allah.” The former GMD warned that media speculation could harm Nigeria’s international standing, urging journalists to avoid “being stampeded into misleading the public on unverified stories.”

As pressure mounts on anti-graft agencies to expand their investigation, industry sources suggest the EFCC may soon invite Kyari to provide insights into financial decisions made during his tenure. The former NNPC boss maintains he is merely enjoying a “well-deserved rest” after the dissolution of the NNPCL board. Thanking his family and friends for their support, he assured that he remains “available to respond to all lawful queries.”

Kyari’s statement comes after online reports revealed that the EFCC arrested some top officials of the Port Harcourt Refining Company, Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company, and Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company, and discovered N80 billion in the bank accounts of a retired NNPC senior staff. However, Kyari’s statement did not directly address these developments.

The unfolding scandal has reignited debates about corruption in Nigeria’s oil sector, with many Nigerians expressing skepticism about Kyari’s claims of transparency given the country’s long history of mismanaged oil wealth. As investigators continue tracing the maze of Nigeria’s refinery finances, all eyes remain on whether the probe will reach higher echelons of power in Africa’s largest oil-producing nation.