Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has denied reports claiming he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing the rumours as “clear mischief” and “a calculated attempt” to tarnish his image.

In a statement posted late Saturday on his X handle, Kyari clarified that he is currently taking a “well-deserved rest” after the recent dissolution of the NNPCL board and management.

He emphasized that he remains open to any lawful investigation regarding his time at the helm.“Over the past few days and in particular in the past two hours, I have been inundated with calls from concerned family and friends over claims by an online newspaper that I was in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,” he said.

“This is clear mischief and a calculated attempt by the newspaper and its sponsors to achieve a desired outcome, which only them know.”Kyari served the NNPCL for 34 years, nearly six of which were as Group CEO.

He defended his track record, saying, “I must emphasize that I served with the fear of God knowing fully well as a Muslim that if I do not account before man, I will account before Allah… I am happy to account for my stewardship in this world.”

He further cautioned the media against spreading unverified information, warning of its potential to damage Nigeria’s image abroad. “The resort to disinformation does not serve anyone’s purpose, the NNPCL or the country in general, as it has the potential to send the wrong signals to investors and the international community,” he stated.

President Bola Tinubu had in April removed Kyari alongside the NNPCL chairman, Pius Akinyelure, and appointed Bashir Ojulari as the new Group CEO, effective April 2, 2025.

Kyari concluded by thanking those who reached out and reiterated his readiness to respond to “all lawful queries.”