The former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari, has addressed a report alleging he was in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Mr Kyari, in a statement posted on his X handle on Saturday night, explained that he is currently taking a well-deserved rest after the dissolution of the NNPC Ltd management and board, of which he was a part.
He reflected on his service to the NNPC and NNPC Ltd for 34 years, with 17 of those years in management roles and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve under two administrations, those of Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Tinubu.
Mr Kyari said he is committed to accountability, stating that he served with the fear of God, knowing that he would be answerable not only to human institutions but also to God.
He expressed his willingness to account for his stewardship during his tenure at the NNPC.
“I served not only my country but also God. I am happy to account for my stewardship. Over the past few days and in particular in the past 2 hours, I have been inundated with calls from concerned family and friends over claims by an online newspaper that I was in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This is clear mischief and a calculated attempt by the newspaper and its sponsors to achieve a desired outcome, which only them know. 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.
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed gratitude for his 34-year service with the NNPC and NNPCL, particularly the last 5 years and 9 months. He emphasized the importance of serving with fear of God and the belief that if he doesn’t account before man, he will account before Allah. He also criticized disinformation for potentially misleading investors and the international community.
