From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Mele Kyari, former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has strongly denied media reports claiming he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He declared, “I served not only my country but also God.”
In a statement shared with journalists, Kyari called the claims deliberate falsehoods spread by an online newspaper and its unnamed sponsors to damage his reputation and mislead the public.
“I must emphasise that I served with the fear of God, knowing that if I do not account before man, I will certainly account before Allah,” he said. “That is why I am happy and willing to respond to any lawful query regarding my stewardship.”
Kyari explained that he is currently on a well-deserved break after the recent dissolution of the NNPCL board and management. “With my 34 years of service to the national oil corporation, 17 of those years in management and nearly six years as GCEO, I barely had time for personal leave, and I am now taking time to recharge,” he said.
He thanked former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the chance to serve. However, he cautioned that unverified allegations could harm national institutions and reduce investor confidence.
Kyari urged the media not to be used for disinformation. “I am thanking friends and family members for their support, and I am assuring them of my availability to respond to any lawful inquiries,” he said.