EFCC releases Ex-NNPCL boss Mele Kyari over alleged financial misconduct after questioning 

Former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has left the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja after being questioned over financial matters during his tenure.

Kyari arrived at the EFCC headquarters around 2:15 pm on Wednesday and was interrogated by detectives.

The EFCC investigation focused on alleged financial improprieties, including a $7.2 billion refineries’ turnaround maintenance programme.

The EFCC had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking a 60-day freeze order to complete its investigation.

However, Justice Emeke Nwite limited the freeze period to 30 days with the option of renewal if necessary.

The court order froze four Jaiz bank accounts linked to Kyari, with two accounts in his name and two belonging to the Guwori Community Development Foundation Flood Relief, a non-governmental organisation.

The EFCC alleged that Kyari used the frozen accounts to receive suspicious inflows from NNPC and various oil companies.

According to Amin Abdullahi, an EFCC investigator, the accounts are suspected to be linked to misappropriation of funds and criminal breach of trust, with approximately N661,464,601.50 warehoused in the four accounts.

After the questioning, Kyari stated, “I have done my part; the EFCC must do theirs. When each of us does our duty without fear or favour, with honour, respect, and commitment, Nigeria moves forward.”

He emphasised his commitment to national accountability and anti-corruption efforts.