Court Freezes Mele Kyari Ex-NNPCL Boss Accounts

Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

In a major setback for Nigeria's fight against corruption in the oil industry, a Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the temporary freezing of four Jaiz Bank accounts allegedly connected to Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Justice Emeka Nwite issued the order on August 19, 2025, following an ex parte motion by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), as investigations into suspected financial misconduct intensify.

The accounts in question, holding a combined N661.4 million, are suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities. They include one in Kyari's name (0017922724) and three under the Guwori Community Development Foundation (0018575055, 0018575141 for flood relief). EFCC investigators claim these funds come from suspicious inflows from NNPCL and oil companies, disguised as donations for a book launch and NGO funding, with Kyari allegedly using family members as fronts to control them. The probe accuses conspiracy, abuse of office, money laundering, and criminal breach of trust—part of a broader investigation into the mismanagement of refinery rehabilitation funds, where over N80 billion was reportedly traced to another former executive's accounts.

This development arises from a petition submitted on April 24, 2025, by the Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, prompting the EFCC to examine bank records, corporate details from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), and conduct interviews. Justice Nwite, finding the application "meritorious," adjourned the case to September 23, 2025, for an update on the investigation.

Kyari, who served as NNPCL's GCEO from July 2019 until his removal by President Bola Tinubu on April 2, 2025, amid a major shake-up to restore investor confidence, has faced increasing scrutiny. In May 2025, he denied rumors of his arrest on X, calling them "clear mischief" and confirming his "well-deserved rest" after more than three decades in the industry. "I served with the fear of God, knowing fully well that if I do not account before man, I will account before Allah," he posted, emphasizing his readiness to defend his stewardship. Neither Kyari nor NNPCL has issued a new response to this freezing order, but the case highlights Tinubu's anti-corruption efforts in the vital energy sector.

This isn't isolated; NNPCL's leadership overhaul saw Bashir Ojulari appointed as the new Group CEO, tasked with improving efficiency amid Nigeria's oil industry challenges. Public reactions on X are emerging, with users like @viarifnote sharing the news and questioning accountability in state-owned enterprises. For Nigerians, tired of corruption in the oil sector that fuels the economy yet is riddled with scandals, this case could signal a turning point toward greater transparency. As the EFCC moves forward, it underscores the need for strong oversight to protect public funds. Stay alert as more details emerge; accountability begins with awareness.