Former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has broken his silence following hours of questioning at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja.

Kyari, who arrived at the commission’s Jabi office around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday, was interrogated over allegations of conspiracy, abuse of office, and money laundering linked to his time at the helm of the state-owned oil giant.

Speaking briefly to journalists as he exited the facility, the ex-GMD said: “I have done my part; the EFCC must do theirs. When each of us does our duty with respect and integrity, Nigeria moves forward.”

Court Orders and Frozen Accounts

The EFCC’s investigation stems from a petition filed in April by a civil society group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, which accused Kyari of financial misconduct. Acting on the agency’s request, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted a temporary order in August to freeze four Jaiz Bank accounts allegedly linked to him.

Although the EFCC sought a 60-day freeze, the judge approved a 30-day restriction, with the option of renewal should investigators require more time. The case is scheduled to return to court on September 23 for an update on the probe.

Background of the Probe

Kyari, who steered the NNPC’s transformation into a commercialised entity now known as NNPCL, left office in July 2025. While he has refrained from addressing the specific claims, he has consistently maintained that the anti-graft agency should be allowed to carry out its mandate without interference.

Sources within the EFCC say the inquiry remains active, though no formal charges have yet been filed. The commission has not confirmed whether indictments will follow the latest round of questioning.