Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has denies being held by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The Company is being probed over alleged misappropriation of $2.9 billion allocated for refinery rehabilitation.
Kyari, in his X account dismissed the allegations as “clear mischief” and a deliberate effort by unnamed individuals to smear his hard earned reputation.
“Over the past few days, and especially in the last two hours, I have received numerous calls from concerned friends and family over an online news report claiming I was being held by the EFCC”.
“This is nothing short of mischief and a calculated attempt by the newspaper and its sponsors to achieve their own agenda.”
Kyari, who was recently removed from his role following a presidential directive dissolving the NNPCL Board and management, said he is currently enjoying a “well-earned rest” after many years of demanding public service.
He added, “Having served the NNPC and later the NNPCL for 34 years—17 of which were in management—and particularly the last 5 years and 9 months, I rarely had time off, not even for a fortnight.”
Kyari affirmed that he is ready to account for his actions both to the Nigerian authorities and to God.
“I must stress that I served with the fear of God, fully aware as a Muslim that if I am not held accountable by man, I will be by Allah.
“Having held a public position, I am both willing and happy to explain my stewardship in this life,” he stated.
Kyari also appealed to the media to refrain from disseminating unverified claims, warning that the spread of falsehoods could undermine investor confidence and Nigeria’s international image