The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained and questioned Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), as part of an ongoing probe into alleged financial irregularities during his tenure.

Kyari appeared at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday for questioning. While the specifics of the interrogation have not been disclosed, sources say the EFCC is examining over $2 billion allocated for the turnaround maintenance (TAM) of Nigeria’s refineries. Of this, $1.55 billion was earmarked for the Port Harcourt Refinery, $740.6 million for Kaduna, and $656.9 million for Warri.

Investigators are also reviewing the legitimacy of contracts awarded under Kyari’s leadership and scrutinizing operating expenses totaling N4.8 trillion, despite the refineries being mostly non-operational.

The investigation follows a Federal High Court order in August that temporarily froze four Jaiz Bank accounts linked to Kyari amid allegations of conspiracy, abuse of office, and money laundering.

It is not yet clear if Kyari has been released following the questioning, and EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale has not commented on the matter.

Kyari, who led NNPC from 2019 until April 2025, has denied any wrongdoing. Regarding the detention, he said, “I have done my part; the EFCC must do theirs. When each of us does our duty – without fear or favour, with honour, respect and commitment – Nigeria moves forward.”

The EFCC’s probe is part of wider efforts to improve accountability in Nigeria’s state-owned oil sector, and its outcome could have major implications for governance in the industry.