The immediate past Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, is currently facing intense interrogation at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja.

Reliable sources within the anti-graft agency, who pleaded anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the matter, confirmed that Kyari arrived at the EFCC headquarters earlier today. According to them, the former NNPCL boss is being questioned over alleged financial misconduct and mismanagement of funds during his tenure at the helm of Nigeria’s oil giant.

EFCC Confirms Interrogation

Although the EFCC has yet to issue an official press statement, multiple insiders disclosed to our correspondent that Kyari is undergoing interrogation in connection with alleged irregularities linked to contracts, crude oil sales, and other high-level financial transactions that took place under his leadership.

One of the sources said:

“He is here with our investigators. The interrogation is ongoing, and several documents have been presented for clarification. This is part of a broader probe into alleged financial improprieties within the Nigerian oil sector.”

Allegations Surrounding Kyari’s Tenure

Mele Kyari, who served as NNPC GMD from 2019 until his exit in 2024, was regarded as one of the most influential figures in the oil and gas sector. His tenure coincided with the historic transition of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) into a limited liability company, now known as the NNPCL.

However, his leadership was also marred by controversies. Critics often accused him of lack of transparency in crude oil lifting contracts, inflated subsidy payments, questionable procurement processes, and financial discrepancies running into billions of naira.

The EFCC’s current probe is said to be targeting specific areas, including:

• Alleged mismanagement of crude oil swap deals.
• Alleged diversion of revenues meant for the Federation Account.
• Questions surrounding subsidy claims and payments to oil marketers.
• Multi-billion-dollar contracts awarded without due process.

Nigeria’s Oil Sector Under Scrutiny

The oil and gas sector, which contributes the largest chunk of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings, has long been plagued by corruption allegations. Successive administrations have struggled to instill transparency and accountability in the industry.

With Nigeria still battling economic instability, dwindling revenue, and rising debt, the EFCC’s interrogation of Kyari is seen by many as part of a renewed drive by the government to sanitize the system and hold powerful figures accountable.

Analysts note that this investigation could have far-reaching implications. If found culpable, Kyari may face prosecution, while the EFCC may extend its net to other top officials who worked closely with him at the NNPCL.

Public Reactions

Reactions have been pouring in from Nigerians on social media platforms following news of Kyari’s interrogation. While some citizens praised the EFCC for taking bold steps against high-profile individuals, others expressed skepticism, fearing that the case may end up like previous probes that were swept under the carpet.

Civil society groups have also weighed in, urging the EFCC to ensure a transparent and thorough investigation. The Centre for Public Accountability (CPA), in a brief statement, stressed that Nigerians deserve to know the truth behind the alleged financial misconduct at NNPCL.

“For decades, the oil sector has been the dark hole of Nigeria’s economy. If the EFCC is serious about cleaning up the mess, then it must pursue this case to its logical conclusion,” the group said.

Government’s Stance

As of press time, neither the Federal Government nor the current management of the NNPCL has issued any official reaction to Kyari’s interrogation. However, observers believe the development could shape the public’s perception of the administration’s anti-corruption fight.

If the EFCC decides to press charges, Kyari would join the list of former top oil officials who have been investigated for alleged corruption. This includes former ministers, GMDs, and senior directors of the NNPC.

What Next?

For now, Kyari remains in EFCC custody as investigations continue. It is unclear whether he will be released on administrative bail or formally charged to court in the coming days.

What is certain, however, is that his current ordeal marks a significant chapter in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against corruption in the oil and gas industry.

As Nigerians watch closely, the outcome of this case will serve as a litmus test for the EFCC’s commitment to tackling financial crimes without fear or favor.