The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has tightened its investigation into the controversial rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries, directing former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) boss, Mele Kyari, to appear at its Abuja headquarters every day.
Kyari, who left office recently, is under scrutiny alongside several ex-officials of the NNPCL and contractors over the $2.5 billion allegedly disbursed for refinery turn-around maintenance during his tenure. Investigators are combing through large volumes of documents, with sources confirming that Kyari’s daily visits are to clarify grey areas and verify contractors’ claims. His accounts have also been restricted.
According to insiders, the EFCC has concluded interrogations of former managing directors and general managers of the refineries, noting that questioning Kyari marks the “final stage” of the probe before formal charges are filed. “It is now up to him and others to defend themselves in court,” one source told The Nation.
Between 2010 and 2023, nearly $18 billion was reportedly sunk into the country’s ailing refineries, which remain largely inactive. During Kyari’s time, $1.55 billion went to the Port Harcourt refinery, $740.6 million to Kaduna, and $656.9 million to Warri. Yet, the facilities remain non-functional despite repeated promises of revival.
In 2022, the Federal Executive Council approved almost $500 million for Daewoo Engineering and Construction to carry out “quick fix” repairs on the Warri refinery. Similar contracts had earlier been awarded to Saipem Contracting Nigeria Limited and Daewoo for Kaduna.
Sujimoto CEO Held in Custody
Meanwhile, Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited’s Chief Executive, Sijibomi Ogundele, remains in EFCC custody over allegations of N5.7 billion fraud linked to an Enugu State Government contract. The developer is accused of collecting 50 percent of funds for the construction of 22 Smart Green Schools but abandoning the sites after delivering substandard work.
The EFCC has secured a magistrate court remand order against Ogundele, frozen his accounts, and may move to seize funds linked to the transaction. From next week, he will face questioning alongside senior Enugu State officials over the project.
The Enugu government insists Ogundele diverted funds, used unqualified workers, and failed to meet basic structural standards. It has since reassigned the schools to new contractors to keep the Smart Green Schools initiative on track.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed both investigations are ongoing but declined further comment.
